The Royal Bahamas Defence Force Northern Command, under the leadership ofCommander Valentino Rolle, hosted its Annual Thanksgiving Ceremonies andLuncheons on theislands of Grand Bahama and Abaco on 27–28 November 2025. This year’s observances were held under the inspiring theme“Return to Gratitude.”Grand Bahama Ceremony–27 November The Grand Bahama event saw the attendance of The Hon. Ginger Moxey, M.P., Ministerf or Grand Bahama, who delivered remarks, along with Rev. Kenneth Lewis, President of the Grand Bahama Christian Council. Captain Shawn Adderley, Staff Officer Legal Affairs also brought remarks on behalf of the Commander Defence Force.Deliveringthe Thanksgiving message was Force Chaplain Chief Apostle Dr. Raymond Wells, who encouraged personnel and guests to reflect on gratitude, service, and unity. Other notable attendees included Senator Kirkland Russell, Permanent Secretary Joel Lewis, Heads of Departments from partner agencies, family members, and special invited guests. Demonstrating a spirit of community outreach, Northern Command partnered withUrban Renewal to host members of the Senior Society, with 20 seniors participating inthe day’s festivities. Guest later enjoyed a traditional Thanksgiving meal prepared for the occasion.During the ceremony, Northern Command recognized its Outstanding Marines for 2025.Honourees were:•Able Seaman Anthony Seymour–Marine of the 2nd Quarter•Able Seaman Andrew Curtis Marine of the 4th Quarter Abaco Ceremony 28 November . A similar ceremony and luncheon was held at the Government Administration Offices inMarsh Harbour, Abaco, for Marines deployed there. Mr. Kirk Cornish, M.P. for North Abaco, offered remarks, followed by Captain Henry Daxon, Executive Staff Officer whospoke on behalf of the Commander Defence Force. The Thanksgiving message was delivered by Assistant Chaplain Force Chief Petty Officer John Ingraham.Marines recognized in Abaco were:•Able Mechanic Kamir Reckley–Marine of the 1st Quarter•Leading Seaman Terrence Scavella Marine of the 3rd Quarter Top Performer Marine of the Year Northern Command extends heartfelt congratulations to all four Marines honoured across the two ceremonies. Leading Seaman Terrence Scavella captured the Top Performance Award, earning the title Northern Command Marine of the Year 2025. Hewill advance to represent Northern Command at the RBDF Overall Marine of the YearCeremony at HMBS Coral Harbour on 18 December.The Royal Bahamas Defence Force under Commodore Moxey’s leadership, is optimizing excellence by bridging generations and embracing modernization. As such,we salute all Officers and Marines for their exceptional dedication, and stead fastservice which continues to strengthen the security and well-being of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.
