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This afternoon, in a Christmas tradition that goes back decades, the men and women of the Belize Defence Force were treated to lunch by their bosses.

The idea is that for the entire year, they give selflessly of themselves in service to the country. So, on this one day, their superiors – who usually command them here and there – are the ones who dutifully serve them.

Commander, General David Jones, told us that it’s one of the few days that the soldiers get to relax and loosen up, just in time for Christmas:

Brig. Gen David Jones - Commander, BDF
"The objective is to say thanks to the soldiers for the hard work and dedication they have been providing for the nation throughout the years and throughout this year and it's an opportunity for the officers and soldiers who have been passing orders to them for the entire year to actually serve them foods and drinks. We've had separate but similar ceremonies at the different out stations. I just returned from Camp Elizario in Cayo yesterday where I did the same ceremony and on Monday I was in Punta Gorda doing the same ceremony for that unit. There was also a ceremony last week as well in the Orange Walk district. So each of the BDF installation had their own ceremonies similar as this. For the ones who are working along the border who won't be able to come here within reason and logics we will take over the Christmas meal for them on the day. So it's only those who are working at the Sarstoon, the ones who are working at Tree tops, Santa Rosa, the areas we can reach we will take the Christmas meal and New Year’s meal for them out there as well."

Hon. John Saldivar - Minister of Defence
"As with other years past the BDF is carrying out its sacred tradition where the officers and senior non-commissioned officers take pleasure to serve our soldiers who over the year have served us and served us exceptionally well. And I must add here that during my recent tour whereas Paul said I went to some of the most remote locations in this country but he says remote, I say difficult locations. It stretched my physical capabilities to the limit to compete but you know me I got pride."

Brig. Gen David Jones - Commander, BDF
"This is something that they look forward to every year. It's a time a part from being served by the officers, it's an excellent meal, excellent food, it puts them in the festive season of celebrating and after the actual meal when I leave they will actually have more fun if I'm not around, they get to let loose. We provide them with alcoholic beverages today and music and drumming from various artists who would come in so immediately as the minister is ready to leave I will leave and then the soldiers will have more fun after I leave."