The Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) was proudly represented at the National Honors Ceremony held at the Baha Mar Convention Centre, where several officers and sailors were recognized for their distinguished service and invaluable contributions to the country. The ceremony, which commemorated the exceptional
careers of those who have served their nation, included awards for both posthumous and retired honorees.
Among the recipients were:
– Captain Samuel Evans (Posthumously) – Order of Distinction
– Senior Lieutenant Ray Davis Sr. (Posthumously) – Distinguished Service Medal
– Force Chief Petty Officer Idamae Ferguson – Distinguished Service Medal
– Chief Petty Officer Ivan Turnquest (Posthumously) – Distinguished Service Medal
Additionally, several members of the Defence Force were awarded the prestigious Order of
Merit:
– Senior Commander Albert Ambrister
– Commander Michael Sweeting
– Force Chief Petty Officer Lawrence Luke Bethell
– Force Chief Petty Officer Mario Bain Sr. (Posthumously)
– Force Chief Petty Officer Gary Mackey
– Force Chief Petty Officer Ralph McKinney
– Force Chief Petty Officer Hubert Smith
– Chief Petty Officer Leroy Whylly (Posthumously)
– Chief Petty Officer Andrew Johnson
– Chief Petty Officer Anthony Morris (Posthumously)
– Chief Petty Officer Daniel Ferguson
The National Honors Ceremony was attended by esteemed officials, including Her
Excellency Cynthia A. Pratt, Governor General of The Bahamas, who presided over the
event. She was accompanied by the Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Phillip Davis, K.C., Deputy Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Chester Cooper, and other senior government dignitaries.
Both Prime Minister Davis and the Honourable Fred Mitchell, Minister of Foreign Affairs, addressed the audience, emphasizing the significance of the awards and the importance of recognizing those who have made extraordinary contributions to the nation. Minister Mitchell, in his remarks, traced the origins of these national honors back to 2016, when they were established to formally acknowledge outstanding service across various sectors of society.
The RBDF’s participation in the event was a powerful reminder of the dedication and sacrifice of its members, both past and present, as they continue to uphold the highest standards of service to The Bahamas.
On behalf of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, Commodore Raymond King extends heartfelt congratulations to all of the recipients and their families on being awarded for their service and contributions to the development of Bahamian society.
