Dismissed with Disgrace!

Twelve members of the Belize Defence Force (BDF) were dismissed with disgrace following what officials described as “grave infractions” of military rules. The soldiers held ranks ranging from sergeant to private.

Brigadier General Anthony Velasquez, Commander of the BDF, explained the decision. “The Belize Defence Force is a disciplined organisation, and when members break the rules, they either get punished administratively… or if what they committed was grave enough, they get discharged,” he said.

Dismissal “with disgrace” is considered one of the harshest penalties in the BDF, stripping soldiers of benefits and permanently barring them from rejoining the force.

When asked about reports that alcohol abuse played a role in the dismissals, Velasquez confirmed it was one of several contributing factors. “Soldiers would get discharged for many reasons, like failing to show up for duty or causing the loss of a life or weapon. So there are various reasons why a soldier would get discharged, including alcohol”, he explained.

The BDF says these steps are necessary to maintain discipline and uphold the integrity of the force.