FREEPORT, Grand Bahama, The Bahamas – The Royal Bahamas Police Force held its Graduation & Passing Out Ceremony of 96 recruits from 'D, E & F' Squad 2024 under the theme, 'Stewards of Justice, Empowered to Serve,’ November 13, 2024 on the GB Sports Complex grounds.
In attendance were distinguished guests, including the Minister of National Security, the Hon. Wayne Munroe; Commissioner of Police, Clayton Fernander; Assistant Commissioner of Police, Shanta Knowles; Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey; Parliamentary Secretary within the Ministry for Grand Bahama, Kingsley Smith; along with other esteemed officials, and the family members and friends of the graduates.
The 96 recruits endured a rigorous six-month training that included hands-on experiences with criminal investigations, firearm training, defensive driving, and traffic investigations.
Commissioner of Police, Clayton Fernander extended his sincere appreciation to the graduates who have successfully completed their six-month training and are now officially part of an esteemed organisation. He emphasised that this accomplishment represents a significant milestone in their lives, as they take on the important responsibility of safeguarding the well-being of others.
“This is not just a job, it is a calling and a commitment to service." He added, “You have taken an oath to serve, to place the safety and security of your community above your needs, and to uphold the principles that guide this noble profession. Your journey has prepared you for many of the challenges that lie ahead. But as you embark on this journey, understand that there are aspects of policing that you will only learn through experience. Each day on the job may present new situations, tests of character. You are not just enforcers of the law, you are protectors, counsellors, and above all, leaders in your community.”
Recruits from each squad D, E, and F earned special awards. The Commandant’s Award is awarded to the recruit who has attained the highest academic performance, demonstrating outstanding knowledge of the theoretical component of police training. This year's recipients are: D Squad R/C 492 Shaquan Cambridge; E Squad R/C 353 Adolphus Grant; and F Squad R/C 466 Chad Rolle.
The Baton of Honour is awarded to the recruit who has excelled not only academically, but also demonstrated superior performance across all disciplines of policing science. It represents the highest standards and is awarded to the best overall recruit. This year’s recipients are: D Squad R/C 513 Shanley Northe; E Squad R/C 385 Kianno Miller; and F Squad R/C 428 Chad Evans.
Director of Training, Chief Superintendent of Police, and Commandant of the Police Training College, Laura Stuart, left the recruits with words of inspiration: 'May your performance continue to be a beacon for others to emulate,' she said.
There was a lively and invigorating display of drills and entertainment from Squads D, E, and F of the 2024 class, as they showcased to family and friends what they have been working on for the past six months.
Minister of National Security, the Hon. Wayne Munroe congratulated the 96 new police officers. He praised them for their commitment and encouraged them to uphold the highest standards of integrity and service as they begin their careers in law enforcement, and he stressed the responsibility and seriousness of their chosen path. “Being a police officer is more than just a job. It’s a calling. Crime-fighting today requires integrity, courage, and a mindset of lifelong learning. As you begin your careers, remember that every call you answer, every case you investigate, and every life you protect is an opportunity to serve with honour, uphold the law with fairness, and make a real difference in your community.”
Minister Monroe also expressed his confidence in the recruits' ability to make a positive impact. “Serve with integrity, lead with strength, and may your dedication inspire a safer, more united Bahamas.”
