PRESIDENT Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has praised the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) for its 61 years of service to the nation, recognising the dedication of serving officers, ranks, reservists, veterans and civilian personnel in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and supporting its people.
In his anniversary message, the Head of State extended congratulations and appreciation on behalf of the Government and people of Guyana, as well as personally, to all members of the Force, both past and present.
Reflecting on the GDF’s establishment 61 years ago, before Guyana attained Independence, President Ali said the institution was founded with the fundamental responsibility of protecting the country’s territorial integrity and serving its citizens.
He noted that generations of military personnel have upheld this responsibility through professionalism, loyalty and courage, making the anniversary an opportunity to recognise the Force’s longstanding contribution to national development and security.
The President paid particular tribute to former members who helped establish and strengthen the military institution, recalling their efforts to patrol Guyana’s extensive borders and defend its sovereignty despite operating with limited resources.
He also recognised the dedication of current personnel serving across the country’s land borders, maritime territory, airspace and communities, particularly during periods when national assistance and emergency support are required.
Ali emphasised that service remains central to the identity of the Guyanese soldier, describing commitment to country and community above personal interests as a defining characteristic of the Force.
Addressing the modernisation of the military, the President highlighted investments undertaken by his Government over the past five years to strengthen the GDF’s operational capabilities and improve the welfare of its personnel.
These initiatives, he said, have included the continuous replacement and upgrading of military equipment, expanded training programmes, improved infrastructure and better living conditions for members of the Force.
He pointed to the acquisition of new vessels and aircraft, alongside the construction and modernisation of barracks and the strengthening of forward operating bases across Guyana, as part of the broader effort to prepare the military for the country’s changing security and development requirements.
According to the President, these investments have helped build a more capable, adaptable and responsive defence force equipped to address the increasingly complex demands facing a rapidly developing Guyana.
While reaffirming the country’s commitment to peace, international law and peaceful coexistence, Ali stressed that protecting Guyana’s territorial integrity remains a fundamental national responsibility.
He expressed confidence in the GDF’s ability to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and preserve its territorial inheritance for future generations.
The President also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the families of military personnel, recognising their continued support and contribution to the service of the Force. He paid tribute to those who lost their lives while serving the nation, stating that their dedication and sacrifice would remain remembered.
As the GDF marks its 61st anniversary, Ali urged all members to maintain the highest standards of discipline and professionalism, remain apolitical and uphold their loyalty to the Constitution of Guyana.
He concluded by extending anniversary greetings to the entire Force, invoking God’s blessings on the military institution and the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.