Forty-nine Junior Non-Commissioned Officers (JNCOs) of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) have successfully completed the Junior Leaders Course (JLC), a rigorous 12-week training programme designed to prepare them for leadership responsibilities at the Section level, both in peacetime and limited war operations.
The course commenced on March 13, 2025, and concluded recently. Over the three-month period, participants were immersed in a demanding regimen of both theoretical and practical instruction across several key military areas including Skill-at-Arms, Field Craft, Signals, Map Reading and Navigation, Drill, Military Law, Leadership, Administration, Close and Open Country Warfare, and Internal Security.
Commanding Officer of the Training Corps, Lieutenant Colonel Dominic Shepherd in his address to the successful students, urged them to embrace the core principles of accountability, discipline, and service to nation as they advance in their military careers. He reminded them that leadership is not just a title but a commitment to integrity, consistent excellence, and selfless service. Commending the participants for their resilience and teamwork throughout the course, he emphasised that how they lead today will shape the future strength of the Guyana Defence Force and the nation.
Several students were recognised for exceptional achievement. LCPL Gershon Sproston was named Best Graduating Student, while LCPL Taqwah Ross earned Runner-Up Student. LCPL Wendell Osborn received the Best Fitness award, LCPL Tenduka Dinban was recognised for Best Drill, and LCPL Kevin David earned the title of Best Shot. The award for Best Military Knowledge went to LCPL Shannon Eastman.
The Junior Leaders Course remains a critical foundation for developing competent, confident, and capable leaders in the GDF. These graduates now return to their units not only with new knowledge and skill, but with a deeper sense of purpose, driven by duty.
