Thirteen recruits took part in their graduation ceremony on Friday as they officially joined the ranks of the Cayman Islands Coast Guard.
The 13 were among some 200 candidates who applied for positions within the Coast Guard in this latest cohort of recruits.
In a statement, the Coast Guard noted, “These young Caymanians have demonstrated unwavering commitment, and remarkable character throughout their rigorous training.
“As they embark on this honorable journey of service and protection, they now join a tradition of excellence and courage. The waters they patrol may be challenging, but they have been prepared to meet every obstacle with professionalism and determination, and we wish them fair winds and following seas throughout their career.”
Governor Jane Owen was among those who attended the graduation ceremony, and she inspected the newest additions.
Owen told Compass TV, “We have 13 graduates who have gone through gruelling training of many months and now they are ready to take on their responsibilities of keeping our islands safe, throughout the seas.”
Each of the recruits – 12 men and one woman – underwent 12 weeks of basic training.
One of the graduates, Gary Owen-Foster, had a tough challenge early on, he explained.
“I broke my foot on day four, so I was off my feet for eight weeks,” he said, “but I bounced back.”
The training was “intense” but professional, he said, adding, “The level of detail was very impressive.”
Fellow graduate Michaiah Thompson said he had learned valuable lessons during the training period.
“If you just give that little bit of effort, you’ll see how much it pays off. … No matter what they throw in your way, just don’t give up,” he said.
This is the third cohort of graduates to join the Coast Guard. The first cohort graduated in 2021 with 16 members, among them Sub Lieutenant Erica Nicole, who was the appointed trainer for this class.
Reporting by Mark Westin and Taneos Ramsay
Related Videos
