Basseterre, St. Kitts, December 23, 2022 (SKNIS): Commander of the St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force (SKNDF), Lieutenant Colonel J. Anthony Comrie, has assured the public that men and women in the organization will remain focused on executing their duties of protecting the twin-island Federation during the festive season and in the new year.
“I want to assure the nation that the St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force will continue its drive for improvement in every facet of our knowledge of the security environment and our interaction with citizens, residents and visitors,” Lt. Col. Comrie said at the SKNDF Christmas Luncheon on December 22, 2022.
The annual luncheon at the Defence Force Headquarters at Camp Springfield was attended by senior government officials and senior ranks of the SKNDF who thanked the men and women of the Defence Force for their service while serving them lunch. Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, as well as Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, Cecile Hull, were among the servers, who greeted the soldiers and thanked them for their service.
Lt. Col. Comrie also extended commendation to the junior ranks of the SKNDF, Coast Guard Unit, and others in attendance.
“This is our way to demonstrate to our service members that we grasp the nature, worth, quality and significance of the duty of the military junior staff,” he stated. “Let me, therefore, express my gratitude to every member of the St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force and their families by extension for the sacrifices they have made.”
Prime Minister Dr. Drew noted that the Federal Parliament approved a $74.6 million Budgetary allocation to the Ministry of National Security, Citizenship and Immigration on December 19, 2022. The monies will fund operations for the fiscal year 2023.
“Just as your commitment to our country is steadfast, so in return, we owe you the same deep commitment and unwavering support,” said Prime Minister Dr. Drew. “A large portion of the budgetary resources will be used to recruit, retain, and upgrade manpower in the Police and Defence Forces, Immigration Department and Prison Services. Resources that ought to be utilized to enhance the knowledge and competencies in modern techniques.”
Dr. Drew also extended appreciation to the families of the soldiers and sailors for their sacrifice.
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