Defence Headquarters, 31 MAY ‘23 (RBDF): The Royal Bahamas Defence Force welcomed one hundred and sixteen (116) recruits to its ranks during a Passing Out Ceremony held at the HMBS Coral Harbour on May 30, 2023.
The group which comprised of ninety (90) males and twenty-six (26) females, successfully completed twenty-six (26) weeks of arduous basic military training that provided professional disciplines in Navigation, Seamanship, Weapons Handling, Defence Act and Regulations, Military Martial Arts, Survival, Firefighting and Communications. The Honorable Wayne Munroe K.C, Minister of National Security, carried out an inspection of the parade, accompanied by Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond King and Executive Officers.
In his address to the newest squad of Marines, Minister Munroe commended them as he expressed his gratitude on behalf of the nation for their choice to become guardians of The Bahamas. “Your successful completion of New Entry Training today signals your commitment to contribute collectively to the mandate of the Defence Force, in protecting and preserving the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our country, especially on our seas. This is a difficult, demanding and inherently risky task in the performance of defence and national security, but I am assured that your training has adequately equipped you for the task ahead.”
With family and friends on looking, the recruits executed precision of military foot drills, weapons drills, and physical fitness displays as per tradition. In addition to this, the squad performed a song composed and led by Woman Marine Recruit Celeste Darville. Special Awards were awarded to the Best Female Recruit recipient, Michelle Walkine and the Best Male Recruit recipient, Leonardo Swain.
In attendance were dignitaries and invited guest including Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of National Security, Mrs. Cheryl Darville, Commissioner of Police, Clayton Fernander, Retired Commodores Roderick Bowe and Tellis Bethel, and Retired Force Chief Petty Officer Fredricka King, wife of Commodore King.
As the new entry marched off, they marched into a new way of life and culture as Marines of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force.
(By Woman Marine Raven Hepburn) (RBDF Photos By: Public Relations Department)
