In a show of deep respect and gratitude, the Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, together with his Branch Heads and Commanders from across the Guyana Defence Force, led an early Father’s Day observance to honour the vital role of fathers in uniform.
This Force-wide initiative, held ahead of Father’s Day, was an expression of appreciation at the command level affirming that the sacrifices and steadfast leadership of military fathers do not go unnoticed. The event took place at Base Camp Ayanganna and simultaneously across other bases, ensuring that fathers in every unit were included in the celebration.
Fathers across all ranks received specially prepared hampers and monetary tokens, which symbolized more than material support; they were acknowledgments of the unique dual role these men uphold as protectors of the nation and pillars within their families.
Alongside the tokens of appreciation, the men were personally praised and informally engaged by their commanders, who offered words of encouragement and reaffirmed the value of their contributions both in uniform and at home. The relaxed yet meaningful atmosphere made the gesture even more heartfelt, and the initiative was warmly received by fathers throughout the Force.
In his address, the Chief of Defence Staff praised the men for embodying the timeless strength of the patriarch; providers, protectors, and moral guides. He drew parallels between fatherhood and military service, noting that both require courage, resilience, consistency, and the ability to lead by example.
“As fathers and soldiers, you shoulder immense responsibilities,” Brigadier Khan stated. “You are builders of homes and defenders of the homeland. Your presence lays the foundation upon which discipline, identity, and values are passed on to the next generation.”
This Father’s Day, the Guyana Defence Force proudly salutes the men who embody leadership in all spheres at work, at home, and in the heart of their communities.
