Defence Headquarters, October 3, ‘23 (RBDF): The Commander of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, Commodore E. Raymond King, made a return to his alma mater on October 2nd, 2023 for an Honour Roll & Prefect Installation Ceremony, held at C.C. Sweeting Senior High School, marking a significant occasion in his distinguished military career.
The Honour Roll & Prefect Installation Ceremony was facilitated by the school’s Principal, Mr. Ricardo Patterson. In attendance were eminent dignitaries, including Her Excellency The Most Honorable Cynthia Pratt, Governor General of The Bahamas, Mr. Clayton Fernander, QPM, Commissioner of Police, and Mrs. Shennan White, Northern Secondary District Superintendent. This gathering highlighted the significance of the event and its relevance to the broader community.
Commodore King was accompanied by his Aide de Camp, Lieutenant Commander Samantha Hart, and the Force Warrant, Force Chief Petty Officer Remone Storr. Their presence underscored the RBDF’s unwavering support for educational initiatives and leadership development. During his keynote address, Commodore King delivered a powerful message on the essence of leadership. He stressed that leadership is not synonymous with authority or power but is defined by service and responsibility. His words resonated with the audience as he urged the young leaders present to lead with integrity, inspire others, and strive to make a positive impact on their surroundings. Commodore King reminded them that their actions and decisions would not only influence their peers but also shape the future of the nation.
As a proud alumnus of the 1984 class of C.C. Sweeting High School, Commodore King shared his personal journey with the students, emphasizing the vital role of dedication and discipline in achieving excellence. He challenged the young leaders to grasp the concept that success is the intersection of preparation and opportunity, urging them to maximize their educational opportunities for their future endeavors.
In his closing remarks, Commodore King left an indelible mark on the young minds, stating, “Always remember that the path to success may not always be easy, but with determination, self-belief, and unwavering dedication, you can achieve remarkable results. I have no doubt that each of you has the potential to reach for the stars and make a lasting impact on the world.”
In alignment with our commitment to “The Pursuit of Excellence in Guarding Our Heritage,” the RBDF, under the leadership of Commodore King, remains steadfast in its mission to foster the development of our nation. We strive to actively contribute to youth programs that instill qualities of discipline, leadership, and determination, empowering the next generation to become exemplary corporate citizens. Additionally, as a responsible corporate citizen, we actively engage in meaningful community relations, giving back to our community in impactful and purposeful ways.
The RBDF remains dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in guarding our heritage. We are committed to upholding the highest standards as we protect and preserve the rich legacy that defines our nation.
Photo Credit: Mr A. McKenzie
