Nov 2, 2026
2 min read
The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) must modernise and stay operationally ready for emerging threats, Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan said as the Force opened its 61st anniversary observances on Sunday.
Brigadier Khan delivered the feature address at a church service at the Auditorium, Base Camp Ayanganna, where he reflected on the Force's achievements and the obligations that come with its entry into its 62nd year.
He paid tribute to the pioneers and veterans who laid the Force's foundation, acknowledged the sacrifices of military families and reaffirmed the GDF's dual mandate of defence and development. Protecting Guyana's sovereignty and contributing to national advancement, he said, remain central to its purpose.
Brigadier Khan also urged Officers and Ranks to uphold professionalism, integrity and patriotism, noting that the Force's ability to carry out its mandate rests on the competence and conduct of its personnel.
He thanked President Dr Irfaan Ali for his vision, confidence and trust in the GDF, and for supporting the Force's recapitalisation process.
The sermon explored the relationship between faith and service through Isaiah 6:8, "Here am I; send me", which was presented as an expression of readiness to answer a call to serve. Officers and Ranks were reminded that military service demands faith, courage and commitment to duty.
The service gave the GDF community an opportunity to give thanks for divine guidance and protection throughout its history and to seek continued blessings for the year ahead.
A Colour Party led by Colour Ensign Lieutenant Delmar Headley took part in the proceedings. Warrant Officer Class Two Mirza Shah was Colour Warrant Officer, while Staff Sergeant Jamal Johnson and Senior Petty Officer Paul David served as Colour Escorts.
National Intelligence and Security Agency Director Colonel Sheldon Howell, Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliot, Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham and Regional Division 4'A Commander and Deputy Commissioner of Police Simon McBean attended.
Senior GDF officers present included Colonel General Staff Colonel Kenlloyd Roberts, Adjutant General Colonel Lloyd Souvenir, Colonel Administration and Quartering Commander Roger Nurse and Inspector General Colonel Natasha Stanford-Francis.
Colombian Liaison Officer Colonel Rodrigo Mezú, Brazilian Military Attaché to Guyana Colonel Luciano De Oliveira and former Defence Military Attaché Colonel (Ret'd) Julius Skeete were also present.
