The eldest of five children, 21904 Corporal (CPL) Matthew McRae enlisted in the Guyana Defence Force in 2010.
He received his formal education at Enterprise Primary and East Ruimveldt Secondary Schools.
Corporal McRae said he was raised in a disciplined home and wasn’t allowed much freedom. “My childhood revolved around school, home and the Pathfinders Club. Secondary school was my first taste of freedom and I didn’t handle it well. However, despite my misgivings, I was eventually able to successfully complete high school, and I graduated with seven passes at CSEC,” said McRae.
“After school I was searching for employment. I had a stint at Nand Persaud Communication Inc and then another at Demerara Distillers Limited. I wasn’t completely satisfied and so I ventured to the interior where I felt there were more financial returns. However, working in the interior turned out to be risky. I was unable to further my education or develop myself. It was then that my mother encouraged me to enlist in the Guyana Defence Force. He spoke of the many avenues for growth and development available there and awakened my interest which led to my subsequent decision to enlist,” recalled CPL McRae.
“The Basic Recruit Course did not challenge me much, as I was physically fit and my time in the interior had prepared me well. My parents’ teachings also served me well. The discipline they instilled in my siblings and I, has helped me greatly. Being away from my family and not having my phone proved to be a bit difficult, but as the training progressed and the teaching of core skills intensified, I then became occupied with learning,” said CPL McRae.
Following his completion of the Basic Recruit Course, he was posted to 1 Infantry Battalion Labaria Company (1 Inf Lab Coy) where he served until being posted to Signal Corp. “My time in the Infantry was filled with adventure. It provided me with the opportunity to indulge in my love for nature. I have visited all Administrative regions and I have seen the full beauty of my country,” he said.
CPL McRae has completed the Standard Infantryman Course, Grade 3 Signal Course, Junior Leaders Course, Grade 2 Signal Course, Section Commanders Course. He also attained a certificate in electrical installation from the Guysuco Training Center and a certificate in electrical Installation from GITC.
“My hope is to further my education in the field of Electrical and one day become a certified electrical engineer. I will also continue to serve as I find fulfillment in what I do and I intend to make the most of this opportunity. In order to truly enjoy the many benefits which this organisation offers, you must embody its Values and Standards which places heavy emphasis on discipline. As such, anyone who intends to have a promising, fulfilling and rewarding career must be prepared to conform to these standards. I am still content with my decision to enlist in the Guyana Defence Force,” he asserted.
