BDF changes command
A historical event took place today as the fourth Belizean to ever assume the post of commandant of the Belize Defence Force was sworn in. Brigadier General Robert Garcia surrendered the post after serving twenty-years in the army, to Brigadier General Cedric Borland.
Jose Sanchez, Reporting
Today’s ceremony at the Price Barracks saw the retirement of General Robert Garcia and the Belize Defence Force’s change of Command to Brigadier General Cedric Borland.
After inspecting the troops, Espat discussed Belize’s relationship with Guatemala.
Jorge Espat, Minister of National Security
“Looking to the future Belize will continue to promote peace and stability, while we support a new security framework based on existing boundaries and with the renewed commitment to peace with freedom and democracy. Peace and development are hardly conceivable without good neighborliness and cooperation. This is why we invited Guatemala to drop their unfounded claim to Belize and to mend the border tension between our two countries. Until she does, my I reiterate our government?s position that Belize will never surrender even one square cenitmetre of our territory. Guatemala?s unfounded claim takes us back into the past… not ahead into the future and to peace.?
Though peace with Guatemala is the primary goal of the Minister, the BDF’s new Commandant has confidence in the character of the men and women that now serve under him.
Commandant Brigadier General Cedric Borland
“I have taken command of a well trained, well disciplined, professional military force. I am indeed proud to be the fourth Belizean Commandant. Whilst the force?s mission remains unchanged, strategies, concepts and the core structure will change to meet the new threats and challenges. Finally, I take this opportunity to say to the men and women of the Belize Defence Force, I challenge you to continue to do what is right, the right way, for the right purpose. To the leadership of the force, continue to lead by example and safeguard your integrity.”
DUE TO A PUBLIC AND BANK HOLIDAY ON MONDAY, THE NEXT NEWSCAST WILL BE ON NOVEMBER TWENTY-FIRST.
