The airstrip at Eteringbang, Region 7 (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), has been officially upgraded and renamed the Brigadier Gary Beaton Aerodrome in honour of the late Brigadier Gary Beaton. Brigadier Beaton was instrumental in the project but tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash that also claimed the lives of four other servicemen.
The transformation, led by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Ministry of Public Works, included stabilising the surface, adding a cement-stabilised foundation, improving drainage, and installing lighting and markings, making it operational 24/7. Government Project Engineer, Lieutenant Colonel Bhageshwar Murli, provided critical leadership and technical expertise to ensure the project’s success.
At the dedication ceremony, Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, commended the 240 ranks who worked on the project for their dedication and resilience, calling the achievement a testament to their hard work. President Dr. Irfaan Ali, accompanied by several government ministers and Brigadier Beaton’s widow, Dr. Jennifer Westford, praised the project and proposed a Border Medal to recognise those who contributed to its success.
President Ali highlighted the aerodrome’s role in advancing regional development, including the operation of a new health centre and upcoming projects such as a water supply system for schools, a multipurpose centre, and a tarmac for aircraft and community events. Reflecting on Brigadier Beaton’s legacy, he stated, “Our work lives on, and it’s our contributions that define us.”
The upgraded aerodrome, a key lifeline for the border community, stands as a tribute to Brigadier Beaton’s dedication and sacrifice while supporting the region’s growth and connectivity.
