A member of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Midshipman Nicol Gomes, has successfully completed the internationally acclaimed Initial Naval Training (Officers) Course at the Britannia Royal Naval College (BRNC) in Dartmouth, United Kingdom.
According to a release from the GDF, Gomes took part in the demanding 29-week programme, which ran from January 13 to August 14, 2025. The course, known for shaping officers of exceptional calibre, emphasizes leadership, navigation, seamanship, and command capabilities under pressure.
Delivered in two key phases—Militarisation and Marinisation—the training integrated academic coursework with intensive practical exercises. Among these were Exercise HAVOC, Green Endeavour, Initial Sea Time, and the Final Endeavour, the course’s culminating challenge. Each segment was designed to build discipline, resilience, and leadership skills essential for naval officers operating both at sea and on land.
Highlighting her remarkable achievement, the GDF noted, “Her achievement is particularly noteworthy as she was the only international student in her division and one of only two female participants of the division to successfully complete the course. Her commitment and perseverance stand as a testament to her professionalism and dedication to excellence.”
The Force emphasized that this milestone aligns with its broader objective of fostering professional military education and nurturing leaders who meet global standards. It further acknowledged the importance of international military cooperation, saying, “It also underscores the value of the Force’s partnerships with allied nations, which provide personnel with access to world-class training and exposure to global best practices that enhance Guyana’s defence capability.”
The GDF hailed Gomes’ accomplishment not only as a personal victory but also as a proud moment for the nation. Her success, the Force said, sets a powerful example for her peers, particularly women in uniform.
Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, extended congratulations to Gomes, praising her tenacity and focus. He also expressed gratitude to the Royal Navy and its partner military forces for their continued support and collaboration, enabling Guyanese service members to benefit from elite training opportunities abroad.
The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) was officially established on November 1, 1965, just months before Guyana gained independence from British colonial rule in 1966. Formed with assistance from the United Kingdom, the GDF was initially composed of personnel from the British-trained Guyana Police Force Special Service Unit.
Its primary mission was to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the newly independent nation. Over the years, the GDF has grown into a multi-branch military organization that includes land, air, and maritime components.
In addition to its defence role, the GDF has been actively involved in national development, disaster response, and support to civil authorities, playing a critical role in both national security and community service throughout Guyana’s post-independence history.
