Guyana Defence Force

30 SNCOs JOIN GDF INSTRUCTOR CADRE

Thirty Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) have successfully completed the Drill Instructor Course (DIC) and Skill-at-Arms Instructor Course (SAAIC), earning qualification to join the Force's cadre of instructors.
Conducted from March 9 to June 4, 2026, the DIC equipped nineteen SNCOs with the knowledge and instructional skills required to effectively conduct and supervise drill training in accordance with the GDF Drill Manual.
Running concurrently, the SAAIC prepared eleven ranks to plan, conduct, and supervise live-firing exercises and live gr***de throwing in accordance with the GDF Shooting Policy and Pamphlet No. 21, which governs the planning, conduct, and supervision of training involving infantry weapon systems and pyrotechnics.
For their outstanding performance, several ranks were recognised for excellence throughout the courses. Sergeant Jamal Johnson was awarded Best Graduating Student and Best Teaching Practice (DIC), while Sergeant Dason Ryan was named Runner-up Student. On the SAAIC, Sergeant Brentnol Carmichael received the award for Best Graduating Student, Sergeant Javed Dos Santos was named Runner-up Student, and Senior Petty Officer Shannon Ross-Cox earned the award for Best Teaching Practice.
Delivering the closing remarks, Regimental Sergeant Major of 1 Infantry Battalion, Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Cleveland O'Brian, congratulated the newly qualified instructors on their achievement while reminding them of the responsibilities that accompany their new role.
“Your successful completion of these courses demonstrates determination, commitment, professionalism, and a willingness to uphold the highest military standards. The knowledge and skills you have gained here are not merely qualifications to be displayed on paper; they are responsibilities that must now be carried forward into your units and demonstrated through your leadership and example,” he said.
The newly qualified instructors will now return to their respective units, where they will play a vital role in maintaining training standards, enhancing operational readiness, and developing the next generation of soldiers across the Force.

GDF WARRANT OFFICERS’ DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME COMMENCES

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has commenced its Warrant Officers’ Development Programme, reaffirming its commitment to developing capable, adaptive, and professional leaders at every level of the organisation. Ten members of the Warrant Officer cadre have enrolled in the three-week programme, which is designed to further strengthen the leadership and management competencies of some of the Force’s most experienced senior non-commissioned leaders.

Recognising the vital role Warrant Officers play as senior leaders, mentors, advisors, and custodians of military standards, the programme seeks to enhance their ability to lead effectively within an increasingly dynamic and complex operating environment. Their experience and influence remain critical to maintaining discipline, operational rediness, and organisational effectiveness throughout the Force.
The training will be conducted by a team of selected retired Warrant Officers including retired Force Sergeant Majors , Warrant Officers Class One, Raul Rodney and William Richmond.

Setting the tone for the programme, Commanding Officer (ag), Training Corps, Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) Drumson McCaulay, emphasised that effective leadership requires a commitment to continuous learning, professional growth, and adaptability in the face of evolving operational demands. He noted that the demands placed upon today’s military leaders extend beyond technical competence and increasingly require critical thinking, sound judgement, and the ability to lead within a rapidly changing environment.
Acknowledging the enduring value of the Warrant Officer cadre, Lt Col McCaulay reminded participants that their influence extends far beyond their appointments, shaping organisational culture, reinforcing standards, and contributing directly to operational readiness. Emphasising the significance of their role, he noted that “your efforts count, your contributions save lives and maintain the standards of this organisation.” He encouraged participants to approach the programme with purpose and professionalism, viewing it as an opportunity to further refine their leadership capabilities and strengthen their ability to mentor, guide, and inspire those under their charge.

Over the next three weeks, participants will engage in a comprehensive curriculum encompassing leadership, management, accountability, military systems, policy, procedures, and protocol. Through a combination of facilitated discussions, practical exercises, case studies, and collaborative learning activities, they will further develop the knowledge and competencies required to operate effectively within a modern military environment.

The Warrant Officers’ Development Programme forms part of the GDF’s broader commitment to professional military education and leadership development. By investing in the continued growth of its senior non-commissioned leaders, the Force is strengthening the foundation upon which its operational effectiveness, institutional standards, and future leadership depend.