Brigadier Gary Beaton is the fourth child of Milton and Yvonne Beaton. He is an alumnus of the Charlestown Secondary and Bishops’ High Schools, where he obtained passes in the CXC, GCE O and A levels subjects. He enlisted in the Guyana Defence Force on the 2nd of September 1985.
He was commissioned on 26th of August 1987 after completing Standard Officers Course Number Eighteen (SOC #18). He also completed several military courses locally and abroad.
A passionate engineer, Brigadier Beaton completed his undergraduate studies in Civil Engineering at the University of Guyana, before attaining a Master’s Degree from the Auckland University in New Zealand. His engineering background saw him serve a variety of related appointments, including Officer Commanding Construction Company, Commanding Officer 4 Engineers Battalion, and Commander Engineer Corps. Notably, during his tenure as the Commanding Officer of the Coast Guard, then Captain (CG) Beaton, oversaw the revitalization of the Unit’s Engineering Department and recapitalization of its fleet, all while leading the Coast Guard to the ‘Best Unit’ title for three consecutive years.
His diverse skill set also saw him serve as Adjutant General and Commandant of the Guyana National Reserve, as well as in varying capacities at the First Infantry Battalion, Intelligence Corps and Defence Headquarters.
During his service he also served as the head of the Force Academic Board and the chairman of the Guyana Defence Force Credit Union.
A career spanning more than three (3) decades, Brigadier Beaton has served admirably, with dedication and commitment to the Force. During this period he was decorated with the Border Defence, Military Efficiency, 25th, 40th, 50th anniversary Medals and Military Service Medals.
