The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ushered in its 60th anniversary observances with a solemn thanksgiving service held under the theme “Strengthening Our Nation Through Sacrifice and Selfless Service.” The ceremony brought together officers, ranks, veterans, and national leaders in a collective moment of worship, gratitude, and reflection on six decades of proud and dedicated service to the nation.
President and Commander-in-Chief, His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, delivered the feature address. He noted that it was deeply symbolic for the Force’s anniversary celebrations to begin with a church service, as it reflected the GDF’s enduring foundation in faith and spirituality, values that continue to shape its discipline, sense of duty, and moral strength.
Reflecting on the Force’s historic journey, President Ali praised the vision of the nation’s founders who, even before Independence, understood that sovereignty must be defended and peace safeguarded. He described the GDF’s 60-year record as one marked by duty, sacrifice, and honour.
“For six decades, the men and women of the Guyana Defence Force have stood guard over our beloved nation, defending our borders, preserving our peace, and protecting our people,” the President said. “The GDF has proven to be not a force of aggression or intimidation, but one of peace, protection, and patriotism.”
President Ali reaffirmed his government’s commitment to transforming the GDF into a modern, agile, and technologically advanced military institution, one capable of responding to both traditional and emerging threats. He highlighted ongoing investments in leadership development, expanded air and maritime capacities, and the strengthening of the Force’s role in national security, humanitarian response, and disaster relief.
He also emphasized the significance of new additions to the Force, both in personnel and capability, as a testament to its continued evolution. These developments, he said, reflect a broader vision of a modern Guyana that is rising, secure, and ready to meet the future with confidence.
The President used the occasion to condemn recent acts of violence in the capital, describing them as cowardly and senseless. He commended the swift response of the Joint Services, including the GDF, for their professionalism and coordination, and reaffirmed that Guyana will never bow to fear or division. “Peace will prevail,” he declared.
As the ceremony continued, prayers were offered by Force Chaplain Pastor George Jeffers, Pandit Surendra Tiwari and Shaik Moeenul Hack, for fallen soldiers and for the continued guidance and protection of those who serve. The moment of worship and reflection underscored the unity of purpose that has long defined the GDF, a unity grounded in faith, discipline, and service to country.
Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, in his remarks, underscored a message of reflection, renewal, and readiness. He reminded all that while it is important to celebrate past achievements, the true measure of success lies in how well the Force prepares for the challenges ahead.
He emphasized that the next chapter of the GDF’s journey must be marked by awareness, adaptability, and agility, qualities that define a mission-ready force. In an evolving security environment where the air, land, sea, and cyber domains are increasingly interconnected, the GDF’s expanding presence across these spheres represents its commitment to safeguarding Guyana’s sovereignty in every dimension.
Adding to the spiritual dimension to the day’s reflections, Bishop Dr. M. R. Massiah, who delivered the sermon, urged those gathered to recognize that true service is rooted in humility, faith, and a willingness to put the needs of others before self. His message reinforced the President’s and Chief of Defence Staff’s call for unity, discipline, and moral courage as the GDF continues its journey forward.
The thanksgiving service, filled with hymns of praise and reflection, served as both a commemoration of the past and a recommitment to the future. It reminded all present that the Guyana Defence Force, from its humble beginnings to its transformation into a modern, professional institution, remains steadfast in its purpose: to defend the nation’s sovereignty, uphold its peace, and serve its people with selfless devotion.
As the GDF marks this milestone, it does so with gratitude for six decades of service, and with renewed determination to continue strengthening the nation through sacrifice, discipline, and faith.
