| So, Admiral John Borland's time as the head of the Coast Guard is done, but that doesn't mean that he goes into retirement from the security forces. On the contrary, he's being given a big promotion.
The Ministry of National Security has created a new post known as the Chief of Defense Staff, and he will be the first military professional to hold that office. If you're familiar with the US military, you'll know that each major arm of their security forces is lead by a chief of staff. Together, the joint chiefs all advise the US president on important Military decisions.
Borland, as Belize's first Chief Defense Staff, will play a similar role, and he will have some authority over both the Coast Guard and the Belize Defense Force. He'll be responsible to coordinate these 2 elements of the country's defense apparatus.
During today's ceremony, both he and the National Security Minister briefly discussed this new post:
Hon. John Saldivar - Minister of National Security
"Prior to 2 years ago, the Belize Coast Guard was merely an enforcement agency for the Country of Belize. 2 years ago, the law was changed to give the Belize Coast Guard the responsibility of the maritime defense of Belize, which previous to that was, at least in law, reserved for the Belize Defense Force. It means then, that today, we have 2 separate entities that together and jointly are responsible for the defense of Belize in the case of any external attack or threat. We, therefore, saw it necessary for the creation of what in other countries is known as the Chief of Defense Staff, which is responsible for coordinating the agencies that are responsible for the defense of our country. It is within that context then, that we have agreed to establish that office, and first CDS to be our outgoing Admiral John Borland."
Admiral John Borland - Outgoing Commandant, Belize Coast Guard
"So, as I prepare to write another chapter in my life and transition into my new job, yes because some people thought I would fade into oblivion, not quite. As the Chief of Defense Staff, whereas the professional head of the Belize armed forces, and most senior uniform military advisor, to the Minister of National Security and the Prime Minister, it will be my duty and responsibility to formulate and execute strategies, policies and program toward the highest attainment of national security and operational readiness and competence of our armed forces."
Borland's official appointment was supposed to take place today, but it has been postponed to a later date that is not yet announced.
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