As a part of the Commander Defence Force, Commodore, Dr. Raymond King’s strategic plans to strengthen community relations with stakeholders and the larger community, members of the Squadron Commando department took time out to assist the less fortunate on April 28, 2021.
Led by Senior Lieutenant Edward Fritz, the RBDF Commanding Officer for the Commando Squadron department, and Force Chief Petty Officer Stanley Pitt, the team of Officers and Marines visited the Bahamas Children Emergency Hostel, McKinney Drive, to donate several benches.
Receiving the donation was Ms. Andrea Gibson, Business Manager of the residence, who expressed her gratitude for the donation on behalf of the hostel. While there, the Defence Force personnel assembled and painted the benches. They also took time to rake and clean debris from the yard.
Senior Lieutenant Fritz acknowledged and thanked the corporate sponsors who assisted in donating the benches. They include Kasimu Ellis and Family, the Orxo Design Group Ltd., Stuart’s Carpentry, Unique Aero, and Caribbean Bottling Co (Bahamas) Ltd.
The Commando Squadron Unit also showed their support to the nation’s youth, by assisting in the mentoring of young men at the Ministry of Education Programme Success Ultimately Reassures Everyone (S.U.R.E) on Friday, 30th April 2021.
Also, in attendance was Mr. Charles Newbold, Principal of the institute. In making a huge impact on the lives of the young men, the team of marines comprising Leading Seamen Vandyke Adderley, Javier Forbes, Enoch Smith, and Able Seaman Mickello Cooper all shared personal stories they encountered whilst growing up in the schools and communities. After shedding a positive light on the benefits of good company and a decent education, the young students were told of the possible negative impacts if they continued down a path of corruption.
The S.U.R.E Programme is used to aid troubled young men in behavioral management, academic improvement and more importantly character building. This indoctrination is an ongoing process of three to four months. Participants are taught and equipped with certified skill sets such as agriculture and landscaping, restaurant server, and breakfast attendant.
As the Royal Bahamas Defence Force patrols and protect the territorial integrity of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, the organization also focuses on nation-building for the younger generation.
