Officers and Marines of the Royal Bahamas Force recently attended a service of recognition for the fallen Marines of HMBS FLAMINGO, on Sunday May 22, 2022, at the Parish of St. Gregory the Great Anglican Church, Carmichael Road.Captain Henry Daxon applauded the Officers and Marines during his remarks on behalf of Commodore Dr. Raymond King. He commended them for their continuous performance in the positive advancement of the country and the organization. He also used the opportunity to remember the crew of HMBS FLAMINGO, some of whom have passed away.Also, in attendance were the Minister of National Security, the Honorable Wayne Munroe, Q.C., the Bahamas Resident Ambassador to Haiti, and Retired Captain Whitfield Neely the Non-Resident Ambassador to the Dominican Republic, who is one of the fifteen (15) survivors of HMBS FLAMINGO.During his remarks on behalf of Prime Minister, the Honorable Philip Davis, Q.C., Minister Munroe stated that it is the duty of citizens to support the military men and women by showing their admirable gratitude for the services rendered to the country. He also indicated that a recommendation will be forthcoming, which would allow the month of May to be recognized as HMBS FLAMINGO Month, and the entire crew would be officially recognized as national heroes.In his sermon, The Reverend Canon S. Sebastian Campbell, Rector of the Church, commended the Officers and Marines for their continued services in guarding the territorial integrity of The Bahamas. As he recounted the historical events of May 10, 1980 during the sinking of HMBS FLAMINGO, Reverend Sebastian Campbell also echoed his sentiments that the crew members of the ill-fated vessel have not received their due diligence to be recognized as national heroes.The Royal Bahamas Defence Force recently held its 42nd Flamingo Ceremony in memory of the four (4) fallen Marines who through bravery paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country.May the memories of those who sacrificed for our country never fade.(RBDF Photos by Marine Seaman Rickey Sealey)
