BDF Turns 48, Ushers in New Leadership at Price Barracks

Today also marked a significant milestone for the Belize Defense Force as it celebrated forty-eight years of service to the nation. The occasion was highlighted by a time-honored Change of Command ceremony at the Sir Colville Young Parade Square at Price Barracks. In a formal military parade steeped in tradition, Brigadier General Anthony Velasquez officially took over the reins as Commander of the BDF, succeeding Brigadier General Azariel Loria. The ceremony, held in tandem with the force’s anniversary celebrations, signaled both a moment of reflection and a new chapter in leadership for Belize’s military.

 

Britney Gordon, Reporting

This afternoon, all eyes were on Price Barracks, where the parade square came alive with the sound of military music and the precision of ceremonial marches. The Belize Defense Force officially ushered in a new era of leadership during its Change of Command ceremony. Brigadier General Antonio Velasquez was formally installed as the new B.D.F. Commander, taking on the responsibility of leading the force forward. As he assumed the role, Velasquez spoke about his commitment to serve with honor and to lead in a way that benefits all Belizeans.

 

Brigadier General Anthony Velasquez, Commander, B.D.F.

“To the solider of the Belize Defense Force, every day in every remote corner of this jewel in every mission, your discipline, your courage, your commitment, and your sacrifice are the backbone of this institution. I have been an amazed witness time and time again to the fact that the soldier of the police defense force can do miracles with limited resources, not respect my brothers and sisters. As your commander, I pledge to lead with integrity, clarity, and unwavering dedication. Together, we will strengthen this force, protect our nation, and build a future worthy of Belize.”

 

 

 

As the Belize Defense Force celebrates its forty-eighth anniversary, it’s also looking ahead, getting ready to recruit one hundred and fifty new soldiers. Prime Minister John Briceño, in his remarks, highlighted just how essential the force is in safeguarding the nation.

 

Prime Minister John Briceño

“This anniversary provides us another opportunity to declare that we are very strong, resilient, and ready to protect our nation and our values over the past year. The BDF has demonstrated once again that it is a fault that rises to every challenge when our northern frontier demanded heightened vigilance, the BDF respondent, our message was clear. Belize will always depend its borders. When these police department required enforcement to maintain law and honor in your streets, in Belize city, the BDF stepped up and deployed to support our police.”

 

 

 

Brigadier General Anthony Velasquez joined the Belize Defense Force in 1992, beginning his career as a private soldier. He officially assumed command today, succeeding Brigadier General Azariel Loria, who has led the B.D.F. since 2022. Loria took time to reflect on his years at the helm.

 

Brigadier General Azariel Loria, Outgoing Commander

“Most importantly , we achieved priority in salaries and emoluments across soldier and officer brackets. These initiatives enabled the ongoing evolution of a positive military culture that a work in progress the past four years were unusual and demanding you work harder than what was once, once considered the norm. However, that hard work has been worth it. We have implemented systematic changes that have visibly improved our work ethic. There is a positive gradual change in our military culture and a strengthening of the core values that we impose hold dear.”

 

 

Velasquez emphasized that his ascension is the result of the support and mentorship he has received throughout his career.

 

Brigadier General Anthony Velasquez

“Over the past thirty-one plus years in this organization, I have found meaning and purpose our B.D.F. values. Our unwavering dedication to service and our faith have become an inevitable part of my character. As long as I have health and strength, I will continue to serve each other as soldier of the Belize Defense Force and this beautiful nation of Belize.”

 

 

 

The Change of Command ceremony not only signifies the passing of authority and responsibility from one commander to the next, but also marks a new beginning for the Belize Defense Force, as Velasquez continues Loria’s work while leading with a fresh vision and purpose. Britney Gordon for News Five.