Georgetown: Colonel Enoch W Gaskin, formally handed command of the Second infantry Battalion to Colonel Patrick West, on July 28. The formalisation of the new command occurred at the Change of Command Parade which was held at the battalion’s Headquarters, at Base Camp Seweyo.
In farewell remarks, outgoing commander, Colonel Enoch Gaskin, recounted the beginnings of his military career and highlighted many of his experiences as a serviceman. Having enlisted some thirty six (36) years ago as a Private in the regular component of the Guyana People’s Militia, Colonel Gaskin explained that his association with the military begun much earlier. “I was part of the historic first national reservist training camp. That reservist training had been undertaken, in answer to the call to arms to defend (Guyana) against aggression by Guyana’s Western neighbour in 1976. That camp was held at Konwaruk National Service training centre. It is ironic that my career is coming to an end, at a time when that same western neighbour is once again beating war drums and rattling the sabre,” he observed.
The Colonel said that the singular most impacting aspect of his career was his appointment as Chairman of the Joint Services Training Committee. That appointment, he explained, allowed for the building of capacity and unity in the Joint Services, through training.
During his rather illustrious career, Colonel Gaskin held several appointments across the Force. “My satisfaction, however, has been to selflessly share my knowledge for the improvement of the Force. Sometimes, my interventions were unwelcomed, while at other times, it was most welcomed. My only desire was to contribute to the improvement of the Force, and I think that I did!” He emphasized that, “… the GDF is an organization in which everyone can realise their dreams…I encourage young soldiers and officers to stay the course. Seek always to develop yourselves through self study and formal opportunities to learn new things. Continue to enjoy the satisfaction of giving service in defence of the State.”
Colonel Gaskin encouraged his successor, Colonel Patrick West to continue in the building of the Guyana Defence Force Reserves. “Command of the Reserves is indeed a privilege. The Reserves, from a historical time, represents the commitment of our citizens to actively participate in the defence of the state. Continue the task of providing quality leadership to this national pillar!” he said.
Colonel Enoch Gaskin hails from Ruby village on the East Bank of Essequibo. He has completed numerous military courses through his career and is a highly-qualified paratrooper. Colonel Gaskin is also very qualified academically as he has earned undergraduate and graduate degrees.
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