Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) William Ezekiel Richmond is the current Force Sergeant Major of the Guyana Defence Force — the highest appointment held by a non-commissioned officer. Enlisting in 1992 through the GDF Apprentice Scheme, WO1 Richmond’s career has spanned over 32 years of distinguished service across the Band Corps, Training Corps, and Infantry units.
His early military development began with music training despite no prior experience, where he excelled in mastering instruments such as the trumpet, steel pan, and bugle. His leadership potential emerged early, earning Best Student on the Junior Non-Commissioned Officers’ Course in 1996, and subsequently leading as a Syndicate Instructor and School Sergeant Major at the Colonel Ulric Pilgrim Officer Cadet School (CUPOCS).
Promoted to WO1 in 2013, he was appointed Force Sergeant Major and later attended the prestigious Sergeant Major Course at Fort Bliss, Texas. His instructional and leadership roles have shaped generations of soldiers, and he is respected across the Force for his discipline, humility, and mentorship.
Academically, WO1 Richmond holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Guyana (Class of 2024), graduating with distinction. He is also a recipient of the Military Efficiency Medal, Military Service Medal, and both the 40th and 50th Anniversary Medals.
A devoted family man, he is married with four children — two of whom are currently serving in the GDF. WO1 Richmond’s legacy is one of service, integrity, and dedication to the development of soldiers and the strengthening of the Force.
