In celebration of International Women’s Day, Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond E. King, along with his wife, Retired Force Chief Petty Officer Fredricka King, joined the congregation at Hillview Seventh-Day Adventist Church on Tonique Williams-Darling Highway for a special service under the theme “Rescued and Empowered for Service.”
The service, recognized as “International Women’s Day of Prayer”, focused on the vital role women have played in shaping both the church and the nation. Pastor Kenny Deveaux, President of the South Bahamas Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists, extended a warm welcome and emphasized the strength and resilience of women throughout history.
The atmosphere of reverence was further enriched by Mrs. Joan Rahming, who led the intercessory prayer for women across the country. The keynote address was delivered by Senator, the Hon. Lashell Adderley, a Bahamian lawyer and politician who has served as the President of the Senate since October 7, 2021. As a member of the Johnson Park Seventh-Day Adventist Church, she spoke passionately about faith, leadership, and perseverance, using great women of the Bible as references.
Distinguished guests in attendance included Her Excellency Ruby Ann Cooper-Darling, a trailblazer in Bahamian history as the first woman registered to vote, the second woman elected to the House of Assembly, and the first female representative for a Family Island constituency and Mrs. Cecilia Cooper, wife of Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper.
Under the leadership of Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond E. King, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force is committed to promoting inclusivity and empowerment. By understanding shared responsibility, the Defence Force continues to honor the invaluable contributions of women within the organization and the wider community.
(RBDF Photos By: Able Seaman Michael E. Turner II)
