Today, Base Camp Stephenson, Timehri, came alive for the annual Christmas lunch, a memorable event befitting the season. Bringing together ranks, officers, and invited guests, the lunch, also known as Soldiers’ Day was made particularly special by the presence of President and Commander-in-Chief, His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali.
The annual gathering forms part of the GDF’s Christmas observances and provides an opportunity to recognise the dedication and sacrifices of the men and women in uniform, while reinforcing the strong bonds that define the military community.
In his address, President Ali commended the GDF for its discipline, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding Guyana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, often under demanding and high-risk conditions. He emphasised that the uniform represents a solemn pledge to the nation, one that continues to be honoured through vigilance, sacrifice, and service.
The President also announced the much-anticipated one-month tax-free bonus for members of the disciplined services. The package will benefit over 13,000 personnel and inject approximately $2.1 billion in disposable income. He highlighted that over the past five years, more than $6 billion has been paid in bonuses, alongside salary increases, improved working conditions, and expanded training opportunities.
Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, reflected on the challenges faced by the Force during 2025. He noted that the year was demanding, marked by ambushes, attacks, and hostile engagements, which resulted in injuries to several ranks. Despite these challenges, he said the Force remained steadfast, resolute, and operationally ready, emerging stronger and more determined.
Brigadier Khan highlighted the government’s $50.3 billion defence allocation, the largest to date, which has sustained capability development across all arms of the Force, with a deliberate focus on the welfare and advancement of soldiers. Central to this effort is training and development, with over 900 ranks trained locally and overseas in both conventional and specialist programmes. He also noted a historic milestone, with a Lance Corporal completing a university degree programme for the first time in the Force’s history.
The Soldiers’ Day Christmas lunch concluded with fellowship across ranks, reinforcing the values of unity, respect, and shared purpose that continue to guide the Guyana Defence Force in its service to the nation.
