BDF recruits become soldiers
We’ve seen them before, crawling through the jungle and marching with fully loaded packs. Today the rough and tumble was replaced with spit and polish.
Ann-Marie Williams
After seventeen weeks of blood, sweat and perhaps a few tears, sixty-five soldiers and two cadets of recruit intake number forty-one, today officially became part of the Belize Defence Force. As they lined the Sir Colville Young Parade Square in Ladyville, the top recruits were honoured.
Recruit Gregorio Coc was awarded a trophy for his overall performance, “Champion Recruit”. Canto Gabriel of San Ignacio, “Champion Fieldcraft”. Emmidio Sanchez of Cayo, “Champion Shot”. Recruit Henry Williams of Belize City was given the “Champion Physical Training” award. Private Ophelia Cucul was given special BDF commendation for her translation during the removal of the illegal settlers Machaquila, Rio Blanco and Valentin Camp.
In addressing the recruits, National Security Minister, Jorge Espat urged the soldiers to also maintain dignity of service.
Jorge Espat, Min. of National Security
“Keep the integrity and the professionalism of the BDF beyond disrepute. Everything you do must be directed at continuing to preserve the principles, the ideals and the greatness of the Belize Defence Force.”
Others have paid a much higher price than might be asked of us. Let not the power and privilege prejudice your responsibility to the highest standards of military discipline and decency. Do not stain your honour. Honour matters because character matters, and character matters because the integrity of the Belize Defence Force requires virtuous leaders.”
Captain Gilbert Suazo was the officer who was with the recruits when times were rough. Today he’s with them to share the prize.
Capt. Gilbert Suazo, Officer Commanding Training Wing
“I am excited at this present moment to complete a job well done that is standing sixty-five recruits and two officer cadets. There’s indeed a great pleasure I feel. It’s a warm exhilarating feeling.”
“I believe that for them it is not over till it’s over because after this, it’s going to be a new challenge when they go into their regular rifle infantry company. So it will be a new challenge for them, as I mention to them, it will be like a new beginning as a soldier.”
As a soldier, Carl Nicholson saw his proudest moment today.
Carl Nicholson, Soldier
“It feels like something you can’t really explain. The feel is extraordinary because the training is not ordinary anyway. So it’s a big relief on the mind and on the body. But after this, I see the body can take some more of the training because it’s use to is by now.”
Ann-Marie Williams for News 5.
The new soldiers will be placed among the various companies around the country.
