Coast Guard salutes change of command

As we said earlier in our newscast, cabinet confirmed that there will be a change of command in the Belize National Coast Guard. In its latest release, Cabinet confirmed that Admiral Cedric Borland will be succeeded by another Borland—his vice commandant, Commander Johnnie Borland. News Five caught up with the incoming commandant who says the change is neither drastic nor immediate, but part of a succession plan in the Coast Guard to develop the careers of senior officers. Since the inception of the Coast Guard in 2005, Admiral Cedric Borland, who was on retirement from commanding the Belize Defense Force, was contracted to take control of the Coast Guard. The incoming Commandant says he is privileged to be appointed the top spot.

Commander Johnnie Borland, Incoming Commandant, Nat’l Coast Guard
“I think it is an honor and serious prestige to be given the responsibilities to command the coast guard. Yes, I will be the commandant and my new rank will be captain. I’m not a contract officer, I am a permanent establishment officer and I have fifteen years left to serve in the military. Whichever way it goes, I am not certain what would be the parameters to decide what will determine the next change of command.”

Duane Moody
“And I do believe the deputy would be Mr. Bennett?”

Commander Johnnie Borland
“Lieutenant Commander Bennett will be the new vice-Commandant.”

Duane Moody
“What can we expect with you in command?”

Commander Johnnie Borland
“Well obviously everybody have a different still of command and leadership. I intend to carry on with a number of the projects and initiatives that Admiral Borland has left behind—he was no doubt a very good commander. And of course there will be some changes that I will bring about because I see things differently—my training, my knowledge base, my education will influence the decisions that I make—of course for the betterment of the coast guard.”

Commander Johnnie Borland and Vice Commandant Elton Bennett will officially take over the reigns at a transition ceremony on Friday at the Williamson Complex in Ladyville.