Bahamas News
Police Officers in Grand Bahama Presented with medals and awards.
By: Andrew Coakley
Bahamas Information Services
#TheBahamas, April 4, 2022 – Minister of National Security, the Hon. Wayne Munroe, QC, reminded police officers in Grand Bahama that as they do their part in protecting the communities of Grand Bahama, the Bahamas Government will move to ensure they are given all the tools that are necessary for them to battle the criminal element.
“The Force is, and for the foreseeable future, will continue to be a pillar of Bahamian society, with much being expected from the organization and its officers at every rank,” added Minister Munroe. “Thank you for your sacrifice to our nation.”
The National Security Minister was in Grand Bahama on Monday, April 4, 2022 for the annual Medals and Awards Ceremony, which culminated Police Month. The event was held at the Northeastern Division in Freeport.
Governor General of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas His Excellency, the Most Hon. Sir Cornelius A. Smith presented officers with their medals and awards. Also on hand for the special ceremony were Deputy Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander and Assistant Commissioner of Police Theophilus Cunningham.
During his address, Minister Munroe pointed out that the Royal Bahamas Police Force is charged with the monumental task of ensuring the safety of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas through the maintenance of law and order, prevention and detection of crime and the enforcement of all laws.
In short, he said the Force is charged with ensuring that the Bahamas is a safe place where families can live, work and play without the fear of becoming victims of crime.
“Things necessary for the proper functioning of a police force are: well selected and properly trained personnel, adequate equipment and a soundly organized structure of administrative command and supervision,” said Minister Munroe. “If these are present, the organization has most of the essentials for success. For best results, however, the morale of the men and women must also be kept on a high level.
“All personnel should be eager and willing to do a good job. Officers, you have certainly been doing your part, and today your efforts, bravery, going above and beyond and sustained loyalty to the Force is today being recognized and honored.
“Your individual contributions to the Royal Bahamas Police Force and the wider Bahamian society have been immeasurable. Your heritage is one that is rich with courage, integrity and loyalty on the backdrop of discipline.”
The National Security Minister added that the heritage of the Royal Bahamas Police Force is one that has evolved ahead of its counterparts based on technology, skill set and education. One that has shattered glass ceilings over the years and embraced the hands of time. One which officers have protected and transformed from their forefathers since 1840.
The Force today, he noted, has 182 years of rich law enforcement tradition. A tradition that is marked by the organization’s ability to adapt, evolve and overcome challenges of all kinds to better serve the public.
“I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank all of you for your service to The Bahamas,” said Minister Munroe. “You have put in the work in an effort to create safer communities. You have remained focused on your objectives; when detractors went low, you remained high.
“You have performed above and beyond the call of duty, while lifting the image of the Force culminating to this point where you are being recognized today for your invaluable contributions. I commend you for you professionalism and dedication to protect and defend the security of all Bahamians without fail. Your profession as a police is a huge undertaking that carries a lot of responsibility. You are set aside from regular civilians.”
The Minister cited Section 104 of the Police Act in respect of the Force, which denotes the Award of Medals, namely: the Medal for Gallantry, the Medal for Meritorious Service and the Medal for Long Service and Good conduct. With reference to the Reserves, a Medal for Faithful Service.
He encouraged officers who were not recipients of medals and awards on Monday, to continue to strive for professionalism and high ideals. “Your contribution to the greater whole matters,” said Minister Munroe. “Though unfortunate, realistically the actual number of medals etc. is finite, but rest assured your hard work and diligence is noted and you will get your just due in due course. I appreciate each and every sacrifice you men and women continue to make.
“Do your part and I will continue to do mine. My government is dedicated to empowering the RBPF, whilst showing support and appreciation to its members.”
BIS Photos/Lisa Davis
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Get your laugh on, March On, family drama by Gea Pierre, debut this weekend in Turks and Caicos
This is the sixth edition of the relays and the fourth time that The Bahamas has hosted the event, which actually made its debut in The Bahamas in 2014.
President, World Athletics, Sabastian Coe said after three very successful editions from 2014 to 2017, the World Athletics Relays has quickly become one of the World Athletics vibrant competitions, developing a culture of fun and innovation that gives it a unique flavour.
He thanked the Bahamas Government, the local World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 committee and the Bahamian people for agreeing to host the relays. However, his main thanks were to the “world’s best sprinters” travelling from all the continents to compete in preparation for the road to Paris, France, in two months’ time.
During the opening ceremony, the athletes were given words of advice from Carl Lewis, one of only four Olympic athletes to have won nine Olympic gold medals, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
He said, “Keep it simple, do not try to do anything extra. Do what your coaches said. Leave on time, leave on time, leave on time.”
The athletes and crowds were treated to the sounds and sights of Junkanoo at the end of the opening ceremony. The Junkanoo performers stuck around for the two days of competitions, playing for the sprinters as they competed on the track.
Teams competed in the Women’s and men’s 4x100m, and the women’s men’s and mixed 4x400m. A total of 14 teams at the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 automatically qualified for places at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both days of competition were important, as day two offered another chance for qualifications for those teams unsuccessful on day one.
Bahamians were made proud as the country set a new national record during the mixed 4x400m relays thanks to the efforts of 16-year-old Shania Adderley, a student of Tabernacle Baptist Academy.
The team came first in their heat on Sunday evening after not being able to gain a spot for the Paris Olympics on the first day of competition.
Other sprinters on the team included Alonzo Russell, as well as Olympic champions Steven Gardiner and Shaunae Miller-Uibo.
NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his remarks at the Opening Ceremony for the World Athletics Relays 2024, on May 4, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis welcomed the special guests, athletes, officials, and “all lovers of athletics from around the world” to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium here in the “vibrant heart” of Nassau, Bahamas.
“This weekend, the world’s finest athletes gather on our shores to embark on a journey that is not only about speed and strength but also about dreams and determination,” Prime Minister Davis said. “From the serene beauty of our islands to the historic grandeur of Paris, this event marks a crucial path to the Olympic Games in Paris 2024.”
He added: “Here in The Bahamas, we are no strangers to world-class athletics or the warmth and exuberance that such international gatherings bring. It is a distinct honor to once again welcome the World Athletics Relays back to our islands. This event holds a special place in our hearts, symbolizing a bridge between nations brought together by the universal language of sport.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that that year’s theme, “Paradise to Paris,” captured the essence of that journey.
“It is here, amidst the splendor of our sun-kissed beaches and the rhythmic sway of our palms that the chase towards Olympic glory begins anew,” he stated. “We are thrilled to offer a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, where every sprint, every baton pass, and every victory lap is set against the picture-perfect canvas of our islands.”
He added: “To our athletes, I say this: as you stand on the precipice of your dreams, ready to catapult yourself into the annals of history, know that you are part of a legacy of excellence and determination. This weekend, you are not only competitors but also ambassadors of your countries and the spirit of sport. We are especially proud of Team Bahamas, who carry the weight of their performance and the hopes and pride of our nation. You embody the spirit of The Bahamian people, and we are behind you every step of the way.”
Prime Minister said that to the international visitors, he extended “the warmest Bahamian welcome”.
“Over the next few days, as you revel in the thrill of competition, take a moment to bask in the beauty of our island,” he stated. “Discover why we proudly say, “It’s Better in The Bahamas.” Whether it’s the hospitality of our people, the tranquility of our waters, or the rhythm of our culture, you are in for an experience that captures the heart and rejuvenates the soul.”
“Let us celebrate the unity and friendship that sports foster, cheering every athlete and savoring the spectacle of human potential at its best,” Prime Minister Davis added. “I hope the races are swift, the results are inspiring, and the memories are lasting.
“Welcome to The Bahamas, the paradise where champions chase their dreams to Paris. As your host, it is my immense pleasure to declare the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 2024 officially open. Let the games begin.”
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