By Kenicia Francis
The leader of the country’s Defence Force has received a prestigious promotion weeks after being honoured in King Charles’ birthday list.
Telbert Benjamin was promoted to Brigadier General, effective August 26, from his previous position as Colonel, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).
In June he was made a Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St Michael and St George by the British monarch in recognition of his dedicated service to the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force.
With 29 years of dedicated service, Benjamin has held various roles since his CDS appointment in 2020.
He was congratulated on his promotion by notable figures including Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office Joan Joseph, Commissioner of Police Atlee Rodney, senior Defence Force officers, and family.
Benjamin said the honour had left him speechless.
A Brigadier General is a senior military officer rank, typically one-star general officer rank, above Colonel and below Major General.
It is used in many countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and others.
While both ranks hold significant responsibility, a Brigadier General is a more senior rank with broader leadership scope, more authority, and typically more years of service.
It is also considered a significant achievement and a high honour in the military, requiring many years of service, experience, and leadership.
Additionally, Officer Cadets Jordane Mellanson, Jenelle Walsh, Billie Sterling-Lewis, and Sandra Betances were promoted to the rank of Lieutenant, and Officer Midshipman A Joseph was promoted to Lieutenant Junior Grade.
Joseph was ceremoniously pinned by Commander Jeremy Hansler of the US Navy and Major Jose Guillermo of the Honduran Air Force in a special ceremony held in Pensacola, Florida.
