In a landmark event for national security, the St. Kitts-Nevis Defence Force (SKNDF) has officially welcomed twenty-four new recruits following their graduation from Basic Military Course 1 of 2025. The passing out ceremony, held on March 12, 2026, at E. T. Willet Park in Nevis, marked the first time in history that such training and graduation proceedings have been conducted on the island of Nevis.
The seven-month intensive training program—notably extended from the standard four-month duration due to initial logistical challenges—covered essential military disciplines including Foot and Rifle Drills, Land Navigation, Fieldcraft and Minor Tactics, Skill at Arms, First Aid, Internal Security, and Physical Training. The extended training period also coincided with a raise in pay for the recruits, adding another distinctive feature to this cohort’s experience.
Several recruits received special recognition for exemplary performance. Ozan Huggins emerged as Best Overall Recruit, additionally earning awards for Best at Fieldcraft and Minor Tactics, Best at Map and Land Navigation, and Most Disciplined Recruit. John Singh was honored as Best Rifle Shot and Best Pistol Shot, while Jaheim Browne received Best at Drills, Bjorn Jones earned Best at Physical Training, and T-Kardo Browne was recognized as Most Improved.
Acting SKNDF Commander Major Kayode Sutton commended the graduates for their perseverance, stating: “You answered a call greater than self, accepted the rigours of training, endured long hours, accepted corrections, and learnt to work as a team. Be proud of what you have accomplished, but remain humble in the knowledge that the path ahead will demand more.”
Prime Minister and Minister of National Security Dr. Terrance Drew emphasized the significance of their commitment to national service, noting: “You have chosen a noble profession defined not by comfort but by commitment, where the measure of success is not personal gain but national pride. At the heart of that sacrifice lies our Federation’s motto: ‘Country Above Self.’”
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Governor-General Dame Marcella Liburd, who inspected the parade, Deputy Governor-General for Nevis Hyleta Liburd, Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, and Nevis Premier Mark Brantley, alongside family members and friends of the graduating soldiers.