Young Bahamians making our country proud around the world!
A Royal Bahamas Defence officer was awarded Best International Cadet at his graduation at Britannia Royal Naval College in Dartmouth UK. Twenty- two year old Sanchez Davis was chosen among his peers as the top international cadet. This title automatically puts Davis in the running with other international colleagues from each entry this year to win an opportunity to return to the UK in 2015 and receive the overall Best International Cadet at the Lord High Admirals Ceremony.
A second RBDF officer twenty-five year old Preston J Moss, who graduated as well, received honourable mention during his training at Britannia Royal Naval College. Both Bahamian officers, Davis and Moss completed training and had their passing out parade on July 10th.
Head of the institution, Captain Henry Duffy of Britannia Royal Naval College told the audience at the passing out parade in Dartmouth that he is pleased with the progress of the officers.
“The successful completion of their initial training here on the banks of the River Dart marks their formal transition from civilian to military officer. They have been tested, stretched and assessed in a wide range of challenges. In this sense, BRNC has prepared them well to continue this journey of professional and personal development and to springboard them on their way to a unique and very special career. It is a career that will, I assure you, test them to the limits at times, but one that is always wholly rewarding, exciting and respected,” said Captain Duffy.
Second Secretary and Vice Consul at The Bahamas High Commission London, Mike Guy attended the graduation at Dartmouth and congratulated the young men on their achievement.
“It is always rewarding to see young Bahamians do well internationally. Officers Davis and Moss worked extremely hard and for the duration of their training both of them stood out on their own merit. We are extremely proud of the achievements of these young men,” said Mr Guy. The officers completed three phases of training including militarisation and marinisation; they were required to take various exams, essays and conduct presentations.
Davis and Moss underwent aggressive sea training exercises that took them on board the HMS Bulwark and HMS Illustrious. Their Royal Navy training also involved submarine exercises and various military operations. One of the highlights in their training was participating in the commissioning of HMS Queen Elizabeth.
Before graduating, officers Davis and Moss met with the Minister of National Security, The Honourable Dr Bernard Nottage and Royal Bahamas Defence Force Commodore Roderick Bowe during their visit to Dartmouth in April, to update the officials on the progress of their Royal Navy training.
Davis and Moss are now receiving training in the International Warfare Officers Foundation Course from July 14th to October 31st, 2014. The course trains students to be warfare officers as they learn more about navigation, boat handling, rules of the road and seamanship. Davis and Moss are the first from The Bahamas to participate in this course.
