Col. Errol Brathwaite has assumed leadership of the Cayman Islands Cadet Corps after a formal passing of the baton at the 20th anniversary parade ceremony held on Sunday, 23 Oct. at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex.
As part of the proceedings, Lt. Col. Bobeth O’Garro officially handed over leadership to Brathwaite.
Brathwaite joined the Cadet Corps in 2020 as deputy commandant and has been serving as the acting commandant since June 2021 when O’Garro retired.
The CICC launched its 20th anniversary celebrations in May this year with the cadets participating in a number of activities, including a camp attended by cadets from Barbados, Jamaica and the Turks and Caicos.
Looking ahead, Brathwaite said in a press release, “as the CICC continues its 20-year celebration, there is perhaps no better time to reflect on the path which the Corps has taken and all that it has achieved. CICC’s outstanding success in developing strength of character among Caymanian youths is significantly due to the strong foundation built by outgoing Commandant Lt. Col. O’Garro. As Commandant, my focus is on ensuring that our strategic priorities are geared towards growing the CICC for future generations.”
O’Garro, who officially retired in June 2021, dedicated 20 years of service to the Cadet Corps. She was the first female commandant both for the CICC and in the Caribbean. She was also the first woman in the region leading a Cadet Corps to hold the rank of lieutenant colonel.
Speaking about her time with the Cadet Corps, O’Garro said, “My 20-year tenure at the CICC has been an interesting journey. I witnessed the CICC develop from very limited resources to finally owning our Headquarters, our marine vessel and increase in membership over the years.
“This growth has been great, however, watching our young Caymanian boys and girls develop their skills through participating in the Cadet Corps has brought me the most satisfaction.”
The Cayman Islands Cadet Corps has grown from 42 in 2002 to more than 375 cadets, volunteers and staff today, and include training in marine, infantry and band. Cadets are drawn from the detachments at Clifton Hunter High School, John Gray High School, Triple C School, Layman E. Scott High School and a number of other schools.
Since its inception in 2002, the Cayman Islands Cadet Corps has been equipping Cayman youth and adult volunteers with the tools and life skills necessary for personal development and success, according to the release. A number of past cadets have matriculated into uniform services such as Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, Cayman Islands Coast Guard, Cayman Islands Fire Service and Customs and Border Control.
Governor Martyn Roper, who reviewed the parade, said in the release, “We are extremely proud of the CICC and everything they do for our islands. The CICC has become a fundamental part of the fabric of these islands.”
The Corps, he said, develops great skills in young leaders and is “important for families and the development of caring young people who are highly motivated and understand their value and role in society.
“It is also important for our schools as the CICC acts as a facilitator for affirmative growth and epitomises our values but they also support our society as they inspire local, regional and international industries who are responsible and committed to the achievement of excellence at all levels.”
For more information on becoming a member or an adult volunteer with the Cadet Corps visit https://www.cicadetcorps.ky and follow Cayman Islands Cadet Corps on Instagram @caymancadet.
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