The Royal Bahamas Defence Force hosted its highly anticipated Marine of the Year Ceremony on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at HMBS Coral Harbour Base, celebrating the exceptional achievements of marines who demonstrated exemplary service throughout the year.
The event was attended by distinguished guests, including the Honorable Wayne Munroe, K.C., Minister of National Security; Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond E. King; Force Chief Petty Officer Fredricka King (Retired), Force Chaplain, Apostle Raymond Wells and representatives from Oaktree Medical Centre.
In his keynote address, the Honorable Wayne Munroe emphasized the importance of reputation and personal integrity, commending the awardees for embodying these values. “Actions speak louder than words,” he remarked, urging all marines to uphold their duties with honor and dedication. He also reminded them of the significant trust placed in them by the Bahamian people.
Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond King, congratulated the awardees and expressed gratitude to Oaktree Medical Centre for their support. He applauded the ceremony as a fitting tribute to the marines’ dedication and a reflection of the Defence Force’s commitment to excellence.
Former Marine of the Year and recipient of the 2023 Leon Livingston Smith Award, Leading Woman Marine Jamie Cleare, delivered an inspiring address, sharing insights from her personal journey. She encouraged the new Marine of the Year to embrace leadership with humility and purpose, stating, “Continue to be the leader you would want to be led by. True leaders leave a lasting impression.”
Awards were presented across multiple categories, recognizing the dedication, discipline, and outstanding service of marines in 2024. The Marine Seaman of the Year award was presented to Trevon Brown (Engineering Department), with honourable mentions given to Tyler Leary (Administration) and De’Joan Sturrup (Commando Squadron). The Able Seaman of the Year award was presented to Emmanuel Johnson (Administration Branch), with honourable mentions given to to Rodeno Davis (Engineering Department) and Kavon Taylor (Supply Department). The Leading Seaman of the Year award was presented to Jared Rolle (Intelligence), with honourable mention given to Bernard Barr (Administration Branch).
The prestigious Leon Livingston Smith Award was presented to Leading Woman Marine Aniska Bonaby (Training Department) as the Marine of the Year for her exemplary performance and embodiment of the Defence Force’s core values.
The event concluded with the 4th Annual Captain’s Rush, a vibrant Junkanoo rush-out that highlighted Bahamian culture and camaraderie. Three groups, Heavy D and the Boys, The Beagles, and Showtime competed in a lively contest. Heavy D and the Boys and Showtime tied for first place, with The Beagles taking second.
As the Royal Bahamas Defence Force continues its mission to safeguard the nation’s heritage, the annual celebration serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication and pride exemplified by officers and marines. Heartfelt congratulations are extended to all awardees, with the hope that their success inspires others to strive for excellence in service to the nation.
(Photos by Marine Seaman Jae’Shawn Tayor and Marine Seaman Dante Forbes)
