In most Caribbean countries, armies were formed after Independence.
But, in this regard, Belize’s military history is unique. Because of the
threat from Guatemala, the Belize Defence Force was formed in 1978, three years
before independence. That force took over from the Home Guard, which succeeded
the British Honduras Volunteer Guard – which dates back – history
tells us, to the early 1800’s and at that time, the threat was from Spain,
not Guatemala. So Belize has a long if not storied history of at least an organized
militia. But the modern history is all about the BDF – the home grown
fighting force – which has to defend everything from your street corner
in the city, to the far corners of the Chiquibul Forest. It’s a demanding
job for a small force – but today – on their 32nd. Anniversary -
they celebrated their competency and capacity. I was there.
Brig. Gen. Dario Tapia, Commander - BDF
“We are strong, determined, and dedicated to serving our country.”
Belize has one of the smallest armies in the world with under a thousand soldiers
who stand shoulder to shoulder to defend the country. Thirty two years ago on
this day the Belize Defence Force was established and while the army has yet
to go into combat, their men and women have been on a continued state of readiness.
The weapons are not limited to firearms as this group of soldiers demonstrated
their dexterity with martial arts.
The taekwendo display and parade were held to commemorate the BDF’s anniversary
attended by dignitaries and the soldiers’ families. According to Brigadier 
General Dario Tapia, in the past three decades, the BDF has pushed forward in
its duty to protect and serve and that includes their primary function to patrol
our borders.
Brig. Gen. Dario Tapia,
“But also the Defense Act charters us to do other things like supporting
the other civil authorities in maintaining of law and order and any other tasks
that is assigned to us. Unfortunately we would love to have the entire force
patrolling the border but because the Defense Act mandates us to do these other
things and the current challenges that the police faces, we find ourselves supporting
the police more and more and as soon as possible if the police can hold their
own then we will certainly dedicate more of ourselves to the border.
Over the years we have added some additional observation posts along the
border and there is more in the making because we do need the presence of the
force along the border because the minute we create that vacuum by not being
present along the border then we know what occurs, people come in and do illegal
settlements, and farming. We want to do it but I am cognizant as well that we
need to support the police in this high times of crime and so I have to heed
to the Ministry’s request to support the police.
And so it has been a long way since the making of the force and I think
as slowly, every year we try to improve the force and that is what we are doing.”
The ceremony included award of certificates and medals to those officers and
soldiers who have twenty two years of distinguished service and good conduct.
The Minister of National Security and Defence Carlos Perdomo also commended
the force for its dedication.
Hon. Carlos Perdomo. Minister of National Security
“In its recent anti-narcotic efforts, the discovery and destruction 
of more than 80,000 marijuana plants by the BDF in January alone will help the
government’s quest to lower the incidence of drug usage among the population
and in particular among our youth. I must make it clear that I am indeed very
pleased by this effort of all our law enforcement agencies and in particular
with the work of the BDF.”
The Minister reminded the BDF that they have been entrusted with the great
responsibility to keep the country safe and maintain its sovereignty and territorial
integrity.
Hon. Carlos Perdomo,
“You men and women have also answered many calls to humanitarian needs
of our people. Your countless assistance to the people of Belize in natural
disasters and now with the deployment of officers to Haiti of the Caribbean
Disaster Response Unit is a testament of the force that is willing and able
to advance regional peace, stability and prosperity.”
The United States Military received special mention for its role in assisting
Belize’s army.
Hon. Carlos Perdomo.
“At this time we must also acknowledge and thank our international
partners from all over the world but in particular I would like to mention the
US Military Liaison Officer for their contribution to the development of the
Light Engineering Company, the Special Boat Unit, and the Belize Special Assignment
Group. Newer units, specialized units, that are always involved in operational
work and in humanitarian efforts.”
The Belize Defence Force was established in 1978.
On Saturday the BDF will hold its annual public fair and sports day
at the Price Barracks in Ladyville.
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