Veterans honoured at GDF’s Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF), in celebration of its 60th anniversary this month, paid glowing tribute to the men and women who served before, during its 16th Annual Veterans’ Day Wreath Laying Ceremony held on Thursday at Camp Ayanganna, Georgetown.

Scores of retired officers and ranks, including members of the Guyana Veterans Legion, gathered to honour their fallen comrades at the Veterans’ Monument located just outside the GDF headquarters. The solemn event was marked by the ceremonial laying of wreaths and moments of reflection on the courage and sacrifice of those who defended Guyana and served abroad.

Among those in attendance were some of the nation’s oldest surviving war heroes, including 99-year-old retired rank Arthur King, whose service continues to inspire generations of soldiers.

Delivering the feature address, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips lauded the bravery, loyalty, and selflessness of Guyana’s servicemen and women, noting that their sacrifice remains deeply woven into the fabric of the nation’s identity.

“Today we rededicate ourselves to the eternal memory of those who have fallen,” the Prime Minister said. “Their courage and sacrifices are interwoven into the fabric of our nation’s identity. We pledge never to forget the extraordinary price they paid for our freedom and commit to ensuring that their legacy remains a source of inspiration for generations to come.”

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting veterans and ensuring that their contributions continue to be recognised, adding that their resilience, discipline, and devotion embody the enduring spirit of service that defines the GDF.

Meanwhile, Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan reflected on the pivotal role veterans have played in shaping the Force’s foundation and discipline. He described Veterans’ Day as not merely a ceremonial occasion, but one that acknowledges the “duty performed, sacrifice made, and standard set” by those who came before.

Marking the Force’s 60th milestone, Brigadier Khan highlighted the GDF’s ongoing modernisation drive and its growing regional engagement, citing recent humanitarian and disaster relief missions to Grenada, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Jamaica.

“You, our veterans, built the early strength and discipline of this Force,” Brigadier Khan told the gathering. “You shaped its tradition, upheld its values, and carried its responsibility through periods of uncertainty and challenge. We honour you with deep respect and gratitude.”

He emphasised that the Force’s evolving capabilities—across land, air, maritime, and cyber domains—are a direct reflection of the standards set by its earliest servicemen and women.

The ceremony concluded on a celebratory note, as the GDF hosted a luncheon in honour of the veterans, reinforcing the enduring bond between the nation’s current soldiers and those who paved the way before them.