Defence Headquarters, 08 JUL ‘23 (RBDF): The Governor General of the Bahamas, His Excellency Cornelius Smith and scores of dignitaries and invited guest gathered to witness the official naming of the RBDF Operations Command Center to the “Davy Franklyn Rolle Command Center” on Thursday, July 6, 2023 at HMBS Coral Harbour.
Commodore Davy Rolle, a highly decorated and achieved officer, was appointed Commander Defence Force on May 30, 1997. The ceremony served as a meaningful and memorable occasion to emphasize the significant impact he made on the Royal Bahamas Defence Force in which he served for almost twenty-nine (29) years.
The Operations Command Center is equipped with innovative technologies that extend the organizations reach by creating Maritime Domain Awareness, composed of multiple frameworks that integrate air, land and sea operations.
The Minister of National Security, the Honorable Wayne Munroe, K.C. reminded those in attendance to reflect from whence we came, in order to appreciate what they have today. Noting that Commodore Rolle is a testament of that, expressing that edifices bear the names of those who established the organization. He also stated the Government’s commitment to ensuring that the RBDF is well equipped to carry out its mandate effectively.
“This will be a testament”, said Minister Munroe. “Not only was Commodore Rolle technically sound in his application, but you could imagine, in the early days when Bahamians would have been unfamiliar with the long voyages at sea, he was said to be understanding with his men, firm but compassionate. That is a trait that one would wish in all leaders.”
As he thanked Commodore Raymond King and the Officers and Marines for the gesture, Commodore Rolle used the opportunity to also thank current and past serving members who supported him during his tenure and leadership on the force. As he acknowledged the presence of his family, friends and associates, he gave a brief account of his historical career before and during his military life.
“I am particularly humbled that the government of The Bahamas has granted me this honor to have my name affixed to this building” said Commodore Rolle. “The Operations Command Center is the heartbeat of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force. I wish to thank you all for coming and celebrating this monumental occasion with me and my family”.
The Royal Bahamas Defence Force remains steadfast in its commitment to honor legends who have laid the foundation for countless generations to continue the mission of guarding our heritage.
(By: Petty Officer Tancia Russell/Photos by: Marine Seaman Tenaj Wallace and Rickey Sealey)
