Leadership from the United States Army 1st Security Force Assistance Brigade (SFAB) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) convened on November 27-28, further cementing the military partnership between the U.S and Guyana.
The discussions held between the U.S. and GDF occurred in the wake of President Irfaan Ali and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo’s announcement regarding anticipated visits facilitated by the U.S. Department of Defense. This comes at a time when Guyana has been assured of assistance from strategic partners in the event of potential Venezuelan military aggression aimed at seizing Guyana’s Essequibo county.
According to a release from the embassy, the discussions between the U.S. and GDF centered on upcoming engagements aimed at bolstering strategic planning sessions and refining processes to elevate both countries’ military preparedness and capabilities in addressing security threats.
The SFAB, a specialized unit within the U.S. Army dedicated to advising and aiding partner nations, has engaged in numerous joint training exercises with the GDF since 2022. These exercises have been instrumental in fortifying the tactical and operational capacities of both entities.
Expressing gratitude for the ongoing collaboration, SFAB Advisors emphasized, “We are thankful for the opportunity to train with the Guyana Defence Force as our partners and friends. We look forward to deepening the partnership in the weeks and months to come.”
Lieutenant Colonel Andy Pompey, GDF Staff Officer One General Three – Operations and Training, highlighted the substantial benefits derived from recent U.S. military training in Guyana.
He stated, “The last iteration of U.S. military training here in Guyana has been of tremendous benefit to the Medical Corps and the 4 Engineers Battalion. The transfer of knowledge and expertise from our U.S. counterparts under the auspices of the SFAB has equipped our members with invaluable skills that are directly applicable to the dynamic nature of our modern security environment.”
Pompey emphasized the enduring impact of this training, not only on the operational capabilities of the force but also on the individual professional growth of its members. He praised the SFAB program as a testament to collaborative efforts between the nations and anticipated continued positive impacts on the GDF.
