Outgoing Brazilian Military attaché honoured with Military Efficiency Medal.

Chief of Staff Commodore Gary Best affixes the Military Efficiency Medal to the uniform of Colonel Wilson Mendes LauriaGeorgetown : Brazilian Military Attaché, Colonel Wilson Mendes Lauria was awarded the Military Efficiency Medal (MEM), at a special farewell luncheon in his honour at the Officers Mess at Base Camp Ayanganna. The Defence Board agreed to confer the honour on Col Lauria in recognition of his sterling and exceptional service to the GDF and in contributing to the strengthening of ties between the Guyana Defense Force (GDF)  and the Brazilian Armed Forces.

The award is presented for persons rendering valuable service beyond the call of duty to the GDF and to those who have contributed to the strengthening of the GDF’s bilateral ties with other armies. The Citation accompanying the Award reads in part: “…On assuming command, you not only continued the work that was being done but expanded and strengthened all areas of co-operation between the armed forces of our two countries. It is not only your performance as Military Attaché in the field of military      co-operation with the Guyana Defence Force but also the quality of leadership you demonstrated in the exercise of the function entrusted to you by the Brazilian Armed Forces. For this reason, the Guyana Defence Force awards the Military Efficiency Medal for service of a high quality and facilitating a high and sustained level of interaction between the armed forces of the Federative Republic of Brazil and the Guyana Defence Force.” 

Acknowledging that saying farewell can sometimes be a bittersweet occasion, GDF Chief of Staff Commodore Gary Best congratulated Colonel Lauria on an excellent tour of duty. “This marks another milestone in the excellent relations which exist between the GDF and The Brazilian Armed Forces,” he said. The Commodore noted that the relations are underscored by co-operation agreements which the two militaries have signed. “The highlight of your tenure has been the expansion of maritime cooperation which has