The Guyana Defence Force today bid farewell to Force Sergeant Major (FSM), Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) William Richmond, in a dignified retirement ceremony held at the auditorium of Base Camp Ayanganna. WO1 Richmond has officially retired after serving with distinction for over 34 years, a career defined by commitment, integrity, and impactful leadership.
Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, paid tribute to the outgoing FSM, describing WO1 Richmond’s service as nothing short of extraordinary. “WO1 Richmond gave more than just years to the military, he gave his life,” Brigadier Khan said. “He sacrificed countless moments with his family so that he could dedicate himself fully to the mission, the values, and the men and women of the Guyana Defence Force. That kind of commitment cannot be measured by rank or time; it is a life lived in full service to others.”
The Chief of Defence Staff also acknowledged the unwavering support of WO1 Richmond’s family. “Behind every successful soldier is a family that carries the weight of service too. We thank Mrs. Richmond and their children for standing by him through this long and distinguished journey,” he said.
Brigadier Khan highlighted Richmond’s instrumental role in strengthening the structure, discipline, and professional standards of the Non-Commissioned Officer corps. He also commended the legacy of service continued by Richmond’s children, two of whom are now enlisted in the GDF.
In his final address in uniform, WO1 Richmond delivered a powerful and deeply personal reflection on his military journey, from a hopeful young apprentice to the most senior enlisted appointment in the Force. He credited his growth to institutional training, mentorship, and the lived experience of leadership through various roles.
“True leadership lies not in visibility, but in impact; not in position, but in influence; not in command, but in care,” he said, expressing heartfelt thanks to his mentors, peers, and subordinates. He paid special tribute to the NCOs and officers he mentored, many of whom now serve in key leadership roles, describing their successes as collective victories and testaments to the importance of investing in human potential.
WO1 Richmond also acknowledged his family, staff, and fallen comrades. “My career would not have been possible without the sacrifices of my loved ones and the foundation laid by those who came before me,” he said. “To my wife and children, thank you for your silent strength.”
He offered words of encouragement to the incoming FSM, WO1 Christopher Harmon. “The weight of this appointment is matched only by its potential. Lead with measured resolve, the eyes of the Force will look to you not just for direction but for reassurance.”
Addressing the Sergeant Majors of the Force, he reminded them of their critical role. “You are the linchpins between command intent and enlisted execution. You are the custodians of tradition, morale, and discipline.”
With quiet pride and deep gratitude, WO1 Richmond stepped away from active duty, expressing hope that his life of service will continue in new forms and for the same noble cause, service to people and country.
The ceremony was attended by senior members of the Force, including Colonel General Staff, Captain (CG) Vernon Burnett; Adjutant General, Colonel Lloyd Souvenir; Inspector General, Lieutenant Colonel Natasha Stanford-Francis; retired FSMs; serving and retired Warrant Officers; senior Non-Commissioned Officers; members of the Central Management Committee; and the Richmond family.
During the ceremony, WO1 Christopher Harmon officially assumed the role of Force Sergeant Major, taking the oath of appointment in the presence of Brigadier Khan. The Chief of Defence Staff and WO1 Harmon signed the official documents to formalise the transition. Brigadier Khan welcomed the new FSM and expressed full confidence in his ability to uphold and build upon the high standards of the office of Force Sergeant Major.
