The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Women’s Army Corps (WAC) today celebrated 58 years of dedicated service to the nation. Female officers, other ranks, and servicewomen from sister services marked this significant milestone with a Thanksgiving Service at the Auditorium, Base Camp Ayanganna.
This year, the anniversary is celebrated under the theme: “Transforming Women to Better Confront Present and Future Challenges by Enhancing Awareness, Adaptability, and Agility Capabilities.” During today’s observances, the Force Colour was borne into the auditorium by an all-female Colour Party, consisting of Colour Ensign Second Lieutenant Kureece King; Colour Warrant Officer, Warrant Officer Class Two Maurees Skeete; and Escorts to the Colour, Staff Sergeants Marineika Welcome and Latisha Sampson.
Commanding Officer of the Women’s Army Corps, Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) Natasha Stanford-Francis, who also serves as the Force’s Inspector General, acknowledged the strides made by previous generations while congratulating several female ranks who recently excelled in various training arenas.
“Ladies, remember that you hold the key to your future. Continue making your mark, both individually and collectively, as women in the GDF. As female soldiers, your path is not easy, and you face unique challenges. However, I urge you to continue striving for excellence. Do not let your gender be a hindrance. Instead, see yourself as a capable military professional, able to achieve anything you set your mind to within the GDF. Continue to pave the way for those who will follow,” charged Lt Col Stanford-Francis.
Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, also extended his congratulations to the WAC, highlighting its growth from a small unit to a battalion-sized Corps.
“As the Force continues to evolve, I implore you to take advantage of all opportunities, not just in a military context but also academically. It is my desire to have a vibrant Corps, capable of operating in any theater. To achieve this, we must prepare ourselves. There should be no distinction by gender in which unit you serve or what you can achieve,” he urged.
The Reverend Marva Williams of the West Ruimveldt Wesleyan Church delivered a sermon on the importance of self-image and positive self-talk, inspiring those in attendance to embrace confidence and purpose in their service.
