By Makutu Manneh
The Gambia Armed Forces have promoted 448 soldiers to different ranks at its 1 Infantry Battalion- Yundum Barracks.
The soldiers consist of both men and women elevated from Lance Corporal to Corporal, Corporal to Sergeant, Sergeant to Staff Sergeant and Staff Sergeant to Warrant Officer 2.
Only 45 soldiers were able to receive their ranks on Tuesday April 13th 2021, and the rest of the 403 soldiers are said to be on duties and that their new ranks will be sent to their officer commanding to decorate them.
Brigadier General Ousman Gomez, Commander of the Gambia National Army, told the soldiers that promotion marks an important point in their career.
He said promotion in the Armed Forces is not just a mere promotion, but it comes with more expectation from the soldiers.
“Promotion is based on hard work, discipline and commitment, you cannot be promoted in the absence of all these criteria,” he said.
The Commander said the promoted soldiers are expected to measure up to the demands of their new ranks.
Aliue Nyassi, speaking on behalf of the promoted soldiers, said they are filled with pride and joy for receiving the promotion. However, he said while they are promoted, they should show professionalism, dedication and obedience in their work.
Nyassi also reminded the soldiers that promotion in the Armed Forces is based on merit, thus, he called on his fellow soldiers to be committed and hardworking towards national development. He also urged the soldiers to stay away from unprofessional conducts.
