Brigadier Patrick West is a distinguished former Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), having served the nation with exemplary commitment over the course of a 37-year military career. A consummate professional and visionary leader, Brigadier West formally handed over command of the GDF to Brigadier Godfrey Bess during a Change-of-Command Parade marked by full military ceremonial honours, including the symbolic handing over of the Force’s Colours and a parachute display.
Throughout his service, Brigadier West held numerous key appointments across both traditional and non-traditional roles in the Force. These included Platoon Commander, Commanding Officer of the Artillery and Infantry Units, Inspector-General, and Commandant of the Guyana People’s Militia. He was also appointed Force Housing Officer, Secretary/Manager of the GDF Credit Union, Project Coordinator for the GDF/World Bank HIV/AIDS initiative, and Programme Manager for the Inter-American Grant for Micro-finance. His holistic approach to leadership contributed to the transformation of both the operational and administrative arms of the Force.
As a military officer with a deep commitment to professional development, Brigadier West achieved several notable academic milestones. He was the first officer in Guyana to simultaneously earn two Master’s degrees:
- Master of Science in Administration – Central Michigan University (USA)
- Master of Military Arts and Science – Command and General Staff College (USA)
His educational background also includes:
- Bachelor of Science in Public Management – University of Guyana
- Diploma in Public Management – University of Guyana
- Certificate in Human Health and Global Environmental Change – University of Guyana
In addition to his academic achievements, Brigadier West pursued extensive professional military education and training, including:
- Intermediate Level Education – Command and General Staff College, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas
- Officer Enhancement Training – Escola de Aperfeiçoamento de Oficiais, Brazil
- Defence and Security Studies – National Defence University, People’s Republic of China
- Peacekeeping and multinational operational courses – Latin America
Brigadier West’s tenure was marked by a commitment to transformation, institutional strengthening, and strategic foresight. Under his leadership, the GDF witnessed improvements in air operations, international cooperation, and systems implementation aimed at fostering a culture of excellence and professionalism.
In recognition of his meritorious service, he was awarded the Military Service Star (MSS) in 2017—one of the highest honours bestowed upon military officers for exemplary conduct and contributions.
Currently, Brigadier West continues to serve Guyana in several national capacities:
- Chairman – GDF Commissions Board
- Chairman – Joint Services Coordinating Council
- President – Guyana National Rifle Association
- Senior Pastor – Streams of Power Ministries
Brigadier Patrick West’s legacy within the GDF and national defence architecture reflects not only operational excellence and administrative reform but also a profound commitment to nation-building, youth development, and faith-driven leadership.
