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    Florida Guardsmen exchange expertise with Guyana Defense Force members

    Florida Guardsmen exchange expertise with Guyana Defense Force members

    Photo By Sgt. Neysa Huertas Quinones | Guyana Defense Force (GDF) personnel and Florida Army National Guard Soldiers with...... read more read more

    Guyana Defense Force members were joined by U.S. Army Soldiers with the B/2-54th Security Force Assistance Brigade (SFAB) and 107th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (MPAD) for a knowledge exchange in Georgetown, Guyana, March 23, 2022. Service members shared their skills and experiences as the nations built stronger bonds in preparation for collaboration in future projects.

    Members of the Florida Army National Guard collaborated on best practices with their Guyana Defense Force (GDF) counterparts as part of the educational exchange. Soldiers with SFAB discussed search and rescue procedures while MPAD personnel focused on public affairs as well as community relations aspects. Service members from both countries oriented themselves with hands-on scenarios that not only improved individual skills but strengthened the relationship between forces.

    “This is the first time I've actually gotten to work with a different country's military and the Special Forces (SF) guys are really receptive,” said Sgt. Ethan Arnold, a Signal Support Systems Specialist with B/2-54 SFAB. “ They have a lot of knowledge that they were able to share with us. We definitely look forward to coming back given the opportunity.”

    The relationship between the GDF and U.S. troops have strengthened over the years as partner nations participate in exercises like Tradewinds and other international knowledge exchanges. These events offer a platform to grow closer while also building on skills to ensure the safety and peacekeeping operations in the region.

    “Overall I felt like the familiarization was very beneficial for both U.S. forces and the Guyana Defense Force,” said Staff Sgt. Ethan Arnold, a team supply noncommissioned officer with B/2-54 SFAB. “I'm really hoping this strengthens the bonds between the Florida Guard and overall great experience and I can't wait to come back.”

    In addition to educational workshops and skill improvement, GDF and U.S. counterparts prepare to participate in the Caribbean Women, Peace, and Security Conference. The program seeks to improve operational effectiveness by providing an understanding of women’s population response, integration, recruitment, and behavior throughout the Caribbean. It strengthens partnerships by providing a unique focus on the significance of women's progression.

    According to Brigadier Godfrey Bess, Chief of Staff of the GDF, the progression of women in the service has made a significant impact on both the military and the civilian sector. Female service members have joined their male counterparts in the front lines as well as serve among the top ranking officials in the country. The nation looks forward to seeing more women represent them during this event and many others in the future.

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    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 03.24.2022
    Date Posted: 03.25.2022 09:23
    Story ID: 417133
    Location: GY

    Web Views: 125
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN