By Gerrino J. Saunders
Bahama Journal News Editor

After 45 years of ‘Guarding Our Heritage’ the Royal Bahamas Defense Force
(RBDF) is set to get a boost in manpower, infrastructure and support, according to
Prime Minister Philip Davis.
As the RBDF began the week on Sunday by remembering their own with a wreath
laying ceremony at HMBS Coral Harbour and a church service at the William
Thompson Auditorium on Jean Street in honour of those who served on the
defence force, the nation’s chief Prime Minister Philip Davis expressed gratitude
on behalf of the people of The Bahamas to the many serving officers both past and
present, male and female.
During his presentation at the church service PM Davis said his government is
committed to investing heavily to bolstering the capacity of the nation’s military.
“To ensure that the defense force remains a people’s force in keeping with its
founding vision, my administration is dedicated to keeping the force well-
equipped, well-trained and well-supported.”
“This commitment is anchored by three core pillars including expanding human
capital, upgrading equipment training. We will continue aggressive recruitment,
welcoming both new entrants and reserves.”
He added, “we will provide the defense force with the necessary resources and
continue to acquire land, air and sea assets to support your work. “
The Prime Minister noted that infrastructure upgrades are underway at Coral
Harbour Base, HMBS Gunpoint, Ragged Island and HMBS Mathew Town Inagua.
Additionally he said base installations are planned for South Bimini, West End
Grand Bahama, Marsh Harbor and Cooper Town in Abaco.
He said, “this strategic expansion enhances the RBDF’s presence across the
archipelago strengthening our national security. What began as a visionary idea has
evolved into an indispensible institution for our national security and our national
development.”

He revealed that the number of officers in the RBDF is approaching 2,000 men and
women who are tasked with defending the country, protecting its territorial
integrity, assisting with maintaining law and order and in time of crisis.
Mr. Davis reminded the officers and marines that “the modern Bahamas cannot
thrive without your contribution.”
National Security Minister Wayne Munroe noted that the entire area of the United
Kingdom is 94,000 square miles, while the entire area of The Bahamas guarded
and protected by the RBDF is 180,000 square miles.
“And so your service must be rooted in sacrifice and an unwavering commitment
to protecting the sovereignty of this great nation,” said Munroe.
He said the strength of the RBDF did not emerge by chance, “it is the result of
strategic investment, unwavering leadership, a vision that prioritizes preparedness,
resilience and national security.”
Continuing he said, “this administration remains committed to ensuring that the
RBDF is not just operational, but epitomizes a well-oiled machine with three
essential pillars at its core; human capital as we continue to invest in training
welfare and development of personnel; equipment as we continue in modernizing
ourselves to strengthen surveillance interdiction and operational readiness; and
training where we continue to invest in enhancing the skill and knowledge to
confront evolving security threats.
“These are not mere policy statements, they are action points, guiding principles
that fuel the RBDF’s mission to serve and protect the Bahamian people.”
Munroe reiterated that the security of the nations’ maritime borders is a priority of
the government.
Governor General Dame Cynthia Pratt and members of the Official Opposition
were also present.