![Chief of Staff of the GDF, Brigadier Mark Phillips and President Donald Ramotar. [iNews' Photo]](https://i0.wp.com/www.inewsguyana.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Phillps-.jpg)
Moments after taking the Oath of Office, the New Army chief told reporters “GDF remains in good hands, it remains stable.” He pledged his commitment to moving the Force forward by incorporating the vision of outgoing Chief of Staff Rear Admiral, Gary A.R Best for the betterment of all Guyanese.
“I appeal to fathers and mothers to encourage your youths to join the DGF and serve, not for 30 years like me but at least for three years,” Phillips said.
Meanwhile, President Donald Ramotar, who expressed pleasure to confer the rank of Chief of Staff on Phillips says, he looks forward to working with the new Army Chief to promote the best interest of all Guyanese.
President Ramotar reminded that while over the years the role of the GDF has changed and even expanded, there was always a good relationship between the civil forces and the military. This relationship, the President expects will grow under the leadership of Phillips. He challenged Phillips to build on the foundation laid by his predecessors, while ensure that strong military and civil defense is sustained.
Among those present at today’s swearing in ceremony were Head of the Presidential Secretariat Roger Luncheon, outgoing Chief of Staff Rear Admiral Gary Best, Attorney General Anil Nandlall, Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee along with high ranking officers of the GDF and close relatives of the new Army Chief.
Outgoing Chief of Staff, Rear Admiral Gary Anthony Rodwell Best, who is currently on retirement leave is excited about moving on and says he is prepared to serve in any capacity, since his only desire is to give back to the Guyanese Society.
Best, who served the Guyana Defense Force from March 1980 to September 2013 says his journey has been a fulfilling one, adding that “I feel a sense of accomplishment.” [Kurt Campbell]
