The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) mourns the passing of one of its distinguished veterans, Warrant Officer Class One (Ret’d) Gordon Gabriel Winter, MEM, soldier 1265, who departed this life on 16 November 2025. A soldier of exceptional caliber, discipline, and leadership, WO1 (Ret’d) Winter devoted eight proud years of service to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and an additional twenty-five years of unwavering dedication as President of the Guyana Ex-Soldiers Association Canada.
Enlisting on February 21 1966, then Recruit Gordon Winter quickly distinguished himself as a soldier of remarkable potential. His professionalism and military bearing were evident from the outset. Immediately after completing Recruit training, he was promoted to Lance Corporal, a milestone that signaled the exemplary career that would follow.
WO1 (Ret’d) Winter continued to excel throughout his service. In a historic achievement for the Force, he became the second of only two ranks to advance directly from Sergeant to Warrant Officer Class Two, bypassing the rank of Staff Sergeant, a testament to his exceptional capability, competence, and leadership qualities. At the time of his departure from the GDF in August 1974, he held the esteemed appointment of Regimental Sergeant Major of Camp Ayanganna, attestation to his leadership and discipline.
His distinguished service earned him notable decorations, including the Border Defence Medal and the Military Efficiency Medal, reflecting his commitment to operational readiness, duty, and the defence of Guyana’s sovereignty.
Beyond uniformed service, WO1 (Ret’d) Gordon Winter continued to serve the soldiering community with the same passion and loyalty. He was one of the founding members of the Guyana Ex-Soldiers Association Canada and became its longest-serving President. Under his leadership, the association flourished, providing support and fellowship to former servicemen and women.
WO1 (Ret’d) Winter’s life was one of duty, honour, and service. His legacy is etched into the history of the GDF and lives on through the Ex-Soldiers Association he helped build and sustain. He will be remembered as a soldier’s soldier firm, fair, and respected, and a leader whose dedication to his comrades never wavered.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, officers and ranks of the GDF extends deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the veteran community. His service will forever be honoured, as his memory continues to inspire.
