The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) celebrated the achievements of its newly promoted officers in a distinguished badging ceremony held at Camp Ayanganna on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Brigadier Omar Khan, and Colonel General Staff, Captain (CG) Vernon Burnett, presided over the event, decorating the officers with their new badges of rank.
In a touching display of familial support, the ceremony incorporated a time-honored tradition by involving the officers’ spouses in the decoration process. This gesture highlighted the crucial role that family members play in supporting the professional journeys of GDF personnel.
The list of decorated officers included:
- Acting Lieutenant Colonels: Cranston France, Marvin Simpson, Kevaun Gray, Joslyn Assanah, Damon Joseph, Keith Watts, and Kirk Marlock
- Majors: Brentnol Bart, Michael Favourite, and Othniel Hope
Additionally, Acting Lieutenant Colonel Jaime Castello and Acting Major Eon Cameron, both currently serving on overseas assignments, were also promoted but not present at the ceremony.
During the event, Brigadier Khan emphasized the significance of the promotions, urging the officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and honor. He remarked, “Wear your rank in your heart and in your mind—it is an important symbol of authority, knowledge, and professionalism. You are part of a generation of officers who uphold the tenets of professionalism and responsibility”.
The most senior officer promoted, Colonel Lloyd Souvenir, Commandant of the Guyana National Reserve, expressed gratitude on behalf of all promoted officers. He acknowledged the support of President and Commander-in-Chief Dr. Irfaan Ali and the Chief of Defence Staff, pledging continued dedication to developing the GDF as a “stable and resilient organisation”.
This badging ceremony not only recognizes the individual achievements of these officers but also reinforces the GDF’s commitment to leadership development and professional excellence within its ranks.
