Defence Headquarters, 7 September, ’24: (RBDF) – As part of his commitment to ensuring the welfare and operational readiness of deployed personnel, Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond King, recently conducted a comprehensive tour of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) satellite bases in the Southern Bahamas.
The primary focus of the visit was to check on the well-being of RBDF members stationed in the Southeastern Region Command, including Ragged Island and Great Inagua.
Commodore King was accompanied by representatives from the Chaplaincy Office, the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Office, and the Family Support Office, each providing a multifaceted perspective on troop welfare.
During the tour, Commodore King meticulously validated the living and working conditions of the officers and marines stationed in the region, along with personnel readiness and asset management. He engaged directly with the officers and enlisted personnel, listening to their concerns, suggestions, and recommendations, ensuring an open line of communication between leadership and the rank and file. Commodore King’s visit also included his participation in time-honored military customs, such as evening colours at HMBS Gunn Point in Ragged Island.
In addition to focusing on personnel, Commodore King took the opportunity to meet with community leaders in Ragged Island and Great Inagua, where he shared the Defence Force’s organizational infrastructure development plans and expanding operational footprint in these key southern islands. He also addressed the ship’s company of HMBS Nassau, which is currently on patrol in the Southern Bahamas, reiterating the Defence Force’s commitment to maritime security and operational readiness in this critical region.
The Commander toured the Ragged Island All Age School, demonstrating the Defence Force’s deep commitment to community engagement, before moving on to discuss matters related to national security. His discussions emphasized increased collaboration, cooperation, and coordination between the Defence Force and other national security partners, aimed at strengthening the country’s ability to address both current and emerging security challenges.
As part of his visit, Commodore King inspected the HMBS Matthew Town, Maritime Facility, and Fuel Farm, which are integral to supporting Defence Force operations in the Southern Bahamas. Additionally, he made a courtesy call at the Inagua All Age School, further cementing the Defence Force’s role as a key community partner in the region.
Captain Michael Hanna, the RBDF Regional Commander for the Southern Bahamas, was on hand to support Commodore King throughout the tour. Captain Hanna plays a pivotal role in overseeing operations in this strategically important area of the Bahamian archipelago.
The tour underscores the RBDF’s ongoing decentralization strategy, which is designed to enhance operational efficiency through the establishment of bases in the North, South, and Central Bahamas. These bases are equipped with patrol vessels, aircraft, logistical support, and a robust communications network. This enables the optimal utilization of limited resources in effectively patrolling the territorial waters of The Bahamas.
Furthermore, the RBDF’s decentralization plan fosters closer collaboration with local law enforcement agencies and regional partners, promoting joint operations and information sharing as a force multiplier to address contemporary and future challenges.
The decentralization of Defence Force operations is a critical component of our mission to ensure the safety and security of our nation’s borders. These strategically located bases allow us to rapidly respond to national security threats, provide disaster relief, and engage in peacekeeping efforts within The Bahamas and across the region.
The Defence Force remains dedicated to ensuring that its personnel are well-equipped, well-trained, and fully prepared to deliver maritime security services. Through its mobilization program, the RBDF is committed to maintaining professionalism and proficiency as the cornerstone of its efforts to safeguard the nation and contribute to regional stability.
Commodore King’s tour of the Southern Bahamas reflects his leadership and commitment to the welfare of the men and women of the Defence Force, as well as his vision for a stronger, more resilient organization that is ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
