Belize National Coast Guard honors the best at Christmas
Earlier this week, the Belize Defense Force held its annual Christmas lunch. That tradition is also practiced by the Belize National Coast Guard. The men were treated to a sumptuous lunch and aside from celebrating the spirit of the season, outstanding officers were recognized for excelling in various disciplines. News Five’s Duane Moody joined in the event.
Duane Moody, Reporting
Over one hundred members of the coast guard gathered at the Williamson Complex in Ladyville to attend the annual Christmas lunch; an occasion that was also used to honor them for their performance in the line of duty.
Captain John Borland, Commandant, Belize Nat’l Coast Guard
“These people have been serving us and the country throughout the year and taking orders and have always been at the bottom of the pecking order. And today we are taking care of them, serving them, showing respect to them and letting them know that we appreciate throughout the year the efforts and commitment they have made to the coast guard and for this country.”
The most outstanding officers received certificates of achievement for their hard work and dedication.
Seaman Diego Nicholson, Best Seaman 2009
“You have to know how to tie the lines good, how to moor the boats and then take some tests and I do it at the best of my ability that’s why I win this award.”
Duane Moody
“Your engineer of the year, what does that take?”
Seaman Whain Williams, Best Engineer 2009
“It takes a lot of dedication and hard work to be engineer of the year and I am very proud to receive this award from my superior. I feel very grateful and honored to receive this award.”
Duane Moody
“What did you do to achieve this?”
Seaman Whain Williams
“Actually we overhauled a two stroke outboard engine and with skills and dedication towards it.”
Petty Officer III Tyrone Edwards, Best Coxswain 2009
“It’s basically boat captain. My job here whenever I am called upon, whatever time of day or night, we have to go out at see and I am one of the trusted guys to take out the vessel day or night at sea.”
Duane Moody
“What advice would you have for other persons that might want to achieve this goal like you did?”
Petty Officer III Tyrone Edwards
“Well, when your on the vessel, I guess everyone has to be conscious of what they are doing and you don’t have to just sit and enjoy the ride. You have to get up and ask questions, where are we going and try to learn the area on your own.”
Petty Officer III Allen Logan, Best Patrol Commander 2009
“You have to be very hard working willing to go whenever your called—even if your on your time off or away from work, you’re willing to come in and go when your called upon. Be willing to work with the guys as a team and learn to teach everybody.”
Also recognized were the various government agencies that have worked with the Coast Guard throughout the year. Duane Moody, reporting for News Five.
