His Excellency, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, joined officers and ranks of the 3 Infantry Battalion for breakfast on Saturday, 24 May 2025. The activity took place at the Battalion’s Base on the Essequibo Coast and reflected the Commander-in-Chief’s continued engagement with the men and women of the Guyana Defence Force.
In the absence of the Battalion’s substantive commander, Lieutenant Colonel John Mohanlall, who was away on official duties overseas, Commandant of the Guyana National Reserve, Colonel Lloyd Souvenir, was present, and welcomed the Commmander-in-Chief to the Base.
President Ali used the opportunity to express appreciation for the discipline, drive, and steadfast motivation of the ranks who continue to carry out their duties with a sense of national pride. He stated that he values every opportunity to engage with troops and considers such moments as important reminders of the sacrifices made by those in uniform.
Calling the soldiers ‘the heartbeat of the nation’, the Commander-in-Chief noted that the commitment of the ranks, especially during challenging circumstances, is a powerful demonstration of their loyalty to country and duty. He described their efforts as essential to the preservation of national unity, peace, and territorial integrity.
President Ali conveyed that the nation remains thankful for the service of its military personnel. He emphasised that the Government of Guyana will continue to stand firmly in support of the Defence Force and will do everything necessary to ensure that Guyana remains a peaceful and secure state within the region.
The President also reaffirmed that the military has his full respect, admiration, and support, recognising that members of the GDF shoulder immense responsibility in safeguarding Guyana’s interests, particularly at this critical juncture of national development and regional security awareness.
Also in attendance at the breakfast were Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, Regional Chairperson, Ms Vilma De Silva, Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), Colonel Sheldon Howell, and other members of the Regional Administration, demonstrating institutional support for the troops deployed in Region Two.
The 3 Infantry Battalion remains a key component in the Guyana Defence Force’s structure, playing a vital role in operational readiness and border security. The ranks stationed along the Essequibo Coast continue to display consistent resolve and a mission-oriented mindset, bolstering the Force’s capacity to defend the nation’s territorial integrity.
The Guyana Defence Force remains committed to honouring its mandate to secure the state, support national development, and uphold peace in every region of Guyana.
