RBDF Veterans Association holds Tree Planting Ceremony

In keeping with the Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond King’s intent of improving the quality of life for retirees and veterans through the Veteran’s Affairs Office and collaboratively with the Royal Bahamas Defence Force Veteran’s Association (RBDFVA), members of the association held a tree planting on 26^th March 2021.

Led by the president of the Veteran Association, Chief Petty Officer (Retired) Harold Bosfield, and his committee members, the planting of the trees at HMBS CORAL HARBOUR coincided with the observance of their first anniversary. Officially established on November 19th as a non-profit organization, the association seeks to encourage and foster comradeship, provide an avenue for bringing members together and keeping in touch with past members.

March 21^st of each year is internationally known as the International Day of Forests, and the RBDF Veterans Affair Officer, Lieutenant Commander Judy McDonald, used the opportunity to arrange the planting of The Ligum Vitae and Yellow Elder trees, which both represent national symbols of The Bahamas, and also the names of 2 of the RBDF Flora Class patrol vessels.

Captain Shawn Adderley, Acting Captain Coral Harbour brought brief remarks on behalf of the Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond King. He thanked CPO (Retired) Bosfield and his team for the gesture, which he assures is especially historical, because the location of the planting in the area of the RBDF Exchange is frequented by both Defence Force personnel and their immediate family, which can also be a lesson for the younger generation.

The RBDF Veterans Association continues to support the morale and welfare of veterans and retirees and also the Officers and Marines of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force.