A contingent of Rhode Island National Guardsmen trained with the Royal Bahamas Defence Force in August 2024, focusing on mission planning, intelligence gathering and information security. ROYAL BAHAMAS DEFENCE FORCE
THE WATCH STAFF
The Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) trained for a week in August 2024 with a Rhode Island National Guard contingent in a collaborative partnership to enhance operational readiness in intelligence gathering, information security and mission planning. The two forces have nearly 20 years of formal cooperation, and the latest training exercise allowed RBDF members and National Guardsmen to share expertise and foster new relationships. RBDF Capt. Tellis Bethel, head of the force’s communications branch and lead officer for the subject matter expert exchange, emphasized the importance of these collaborations. “This partnership allows us to access best practices and elevate our capabilities in critical areas such as information security and strategic mission planning,” he stated in a RBDF news release.
The National Guardsmen were welcomed to HMBS Coral Harbour Base by RBDF Capt. Glenn McPhee. During their August 12-16 visit, the Rhode Island Guardsmen toured the RBDF’s Operations Command and other key facilities, gaining valuable insights into operations. The Guardsmen also observed the RBDF’s recruitment process. “The exchange program facilitated the sharing of knowledge and expertise between both forces, enabling the RBDF to bolster its capacity to protect the nation’s interests. By working closely with the Rhode Island National Guard, the RBDF is better positioned to address emerging challenges and contribute effectively to regional security,” the release read.
The Guardsmen’s visit and the longstanding relationship between the forces was celebrated during a meeting with the RBDF’s commander, Commodore Raymond E. King, at RBDF headquarters in Coral Harbour. “This high-level engagement underscored the significance of the partnership and the shared commitment to strengthening regional security,” the release stated.
The Rhode Island National Guard, founded in 1638, is a 3,000-member strong force that has deployed hundreds of Guardsmen over recent years on federal missions, including hurricane relief conducted by its 143RD Air Wing. For nearly 20 years, the Rhode Island National Guard and the RBDF have been partners under a U.S. Department of Defense program administered by the U.S. National Guard.
As the RBDF upgrades its readiness and operational capability, King recognizes the importance of collaborating with partners to exchange best practices. “As we strive to modernize our operations and expand our capabilities, partnerships like this are instrumental in achieving our goals” Capt. Bethel said in the release.