Royal Bahamas Defence Force, Coral Harbor, Nassau (2026)

23/10/2026

RBDF SUPPORTS BIMINI HOMEBUILDERS AND JOB RECRUITMENT TRADE SHOW

Defence Headquarters, 22 OCT 26 (RBDF): The Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) was honoured to support the Bimini Homebuilders and Job Recruitment Trade Show, at Resorts World Bimini in Alice Town, Bimini on 14 and 15 October 2026.

The comprehensive two-day program hosted by the Hon. Randy Rolle, MP and presented alongside Neil Ellis Works and Stone Oak Bahamas Construction served as a viable platform to connect residents, students, businesses, employment opportunities and home development solutions.

The real estate and construction component brought together top-tier construction firms, financial institutions, and insurance services to showcase advanced building materials, architectural concepts, resilient home improvement and financial solutions.

The event was a critical workforce development platform, with the Hon. Pia Glover-Rolle, MP, Minister of Labour and the Public Service in attendance. Residents were able to connect directly with the Department of Labor, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, the Royal Bahamas Police Force, the Department of Immigration, the Bahamas Department of Correction Services, the Bahamas Customs Department and the National Youth Guard. These offered an opportunity to explore different career paths and available opportunities.

RBDF representatives provided specific information about the diverse career opportunities available, and conducted on the spot processing for potential applicants. This proactive approach allowed qualified candidates to begin the process towards preparing for a career of service defending the sovereignty of The Bahamas.

The event also served as a platform to promote the Force’s mission of “Guarding Our Heritage” while inspiring the next generation of Bahamians to embrace a life of service, discipline, and patriotism.

As part of our continuous recruitment efforts, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force invites eligible Bahamians to explore a rewarding career in national service.

Here are the criteria for interested applicants:
• Be a Bahamian Citizen;
• Be between 18 and 30 years of age;
• Have a CLEAN Police Record; and
• Have at least five (5) BJC’s (Maths & English included) with grades C and above.

The RBDF, under the leadership of Commodore Floyd Moxey, is optimizing excellence by bridging generations and embracing modernization. As such, we remain committed to recruiting and developing men and women of integrity who will uphold the values of courage and commitment to protect the territorial integrity of The Bahamas.

22/10/2026

RBDF RECOGNIZED AT 2026 BAHAMAS NATIONAL HONOURS INVESTITURE CEREMONIES

On October 12 and 13, 2026, active and retired RBDF personnel were recognized during the 2026 Bahamas National Honours Investiture Ceremonies at the Convention Centre Ballroom, Baha Mar Resort.

RBDF personnel joined more than 400 recipients honoured for their contribution to the national development of The Bahamas, representing a wide cross-section of Bahamian society, including, public service, private enterprise, the arts, the church, civic, and community life.

Her Excellency, the Most Hon. Dame Cynthia A. Pratt, ON, GCMG, CB, CD, JP, Governor General, as Chancellor of the Societies of Honour and in accordance with the National Honours Act, conferred the honourees with their respective designations.

Chairman of the National Honours Committee, the Hon. Fred Mitchell, MP, reflected on the origins of the honours ceremony and underscored the importance of recognizing those whose service has contributed to national development of The Bahamas.

Prime Minister, the Hon. Philip E. Davis, KC, MP, in his keynote addresses affirmed that nation-building is not the work of government alone. It is not reserved for those with titles or positions…It is the work of every Bahamian who sees a chance to contribute and accepts the responsibility that comes with it.

Under the leadership of Commander Defence Force, Commodore Floyd Moxey, the RBDF is optimizing excellence by bridging generations and embracing modernization. As such, we remain committed to acknowledging the hard work, and service that contributes to the national development of The Bahamas, and embody the RBDF's Core Values.

22/10/2026

RBDF FAREWELL RECEPTION

The Royal Bahamas Defence Force’s Supply Department hosted a farewell gathering for Commander Elvis Bullard, Force Chief Petty Officer Arthur McDonald and Force Chief Petty Officer Charlotte Ahwah who are commencing new chapters in their careers.
Commander Elvis Bullard and Force Chief Petty Officer Arthur McDonald are retiring from active duty, while Force Chief Petty Officer Charlotte Ahwah is seconded to another Ministry.

The farewell gathering celebrates the dedication, professionalism, and exceptional service demonstrated by Commander Elvis Bullard, Force Chief Petty Officer Arthur McDonald and Force Chief Petty Officer Charlotte Ahwah who have distinguish themselves through exemplary performance and commitment to duty.

The Commander Defence Force Commodore Floyd Moxey was in attendance and reflected on the service and contributions to the Supply Department and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force. Commander Elizabeth Simms is the Commanding Officer of the Base Supply Department.

Under the leadership of Commander Defence Force, Commodore Floyd Moxey, the RBDF is optimizing excellence by bridging generations and embracing modernization. As such, we remain committed to acknowledging the hard work, and service that embody the RBDF's Core Values.

19/10/2026

Today, on International Breast Cancer Awareness Day, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force proudly stands in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, promoting awareness, early detection, and the importance of regular screenings. Together, we stand in solidarity with survivors, honour those affected, and encourage everyone to prioritise their health. 💗🎗️

19/10/2026

Military Mondays - Retired Captain Frederick Brown

18/10/2026

ROYAL BAHAMAS DEFENCE FORCE RECOVERS 40 PACKAGES OF SUSPECTED NARCOTICS NEAR CASTLE ISLAND

18 October 2026 | Coral Harbour Base, New Providence

The Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF), acting on intelligence received from its United States partners, recovered 40 brick-sized packages containing a suspected co***ne during an operation on Castle Island, in the southern Bahamas.

On Thursday, 15 October 2026, the RBDF was alerted by its United States partners to a suspected drug-smuggling go-fast vessel that had reportedly been beached on Castle Island while individuals were allegedly attempting to conceal narcotics.

In response, the RBDF diverted HMBS KAMALAMEE to investigate the report. Upon arrival, an extensive search conducted by RBDF personnel resulted in the discovery of 40 brick-sized packages containing a white powdery substance suspected to be co***ne. However, the search for the suspected smugglers yeilded negative results.

Following the recovery, HMBS KAMALAMEE continued boarding and search operations throughout the Acklins and Crooked Island areas before returning to Coral Harbour Base on Sunday, 18 October 2026. Upon arrival, the RBDF handed the suspected co***ne over to the Royal Bahaams Police Force Drug Enforcement Unit.

Investigations into the discovery remain ongoing. The Royal Bahamas Defence Force acknowledges the continued cooperation and support of its international law enforcement partners, particularly the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and Operation Bahamas, Turks and Caicos (OPBAT), whose intelligence-sharing and operational partnerships remain instrumental in combating transnational criminal activities throughout the region.

This latest recovery marks the Defence Force's fifth narcotics interdiction of 2026, highlighting its continued efforts to disrupt illicit drug trafficking within Bahamian territorial waters.

Earlier this year, the Defence Force recorded four significant narcotics interdictions:

May 2026: RBDF personnel interdicted a vessel carrying 66 bales of suspected hydroponic ma*****na, weighing approximately 2,576 pounds, with an estimated street value of $6.4 million.

June 2026: RBDF personnel recovered 12 jettisoned packages of suspected narcotics in the vicinity of Fresh Creek, Andros, weighing approximately 359 pounds, with an estimated street value of $718,000.

July 2026: The Defence Force recovered 97 bales of suspected hydroponic ma*****na, weighing approximately 2,318 pounds, with an estimated street value of $6 million.

July 2026: During a separate migrant interdiction operation, RBDF personnel recovered two bales of suspected ma*****na and 10 bricks of suspected co***ne, further demonstrating the Defence Force's vigilance in identifying and disrupting illicit activities during maritime operations.

The Royal Bahamas Defence Force, under the leadership of Commander Defence Force, Commodore Floyd P. Moxey, remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the territorial waters of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. Through sustained maritime patrols, intelligence-sharing and collaboration with local and international partners, the RBDF will continue to execute its mandate of protecting the nation's sovereignty, securing its borders and contributing to regional security.

16/10/2026

RBDF SUPPORTS MANGROVE RESTORATION EFFORTS

DEFENCE, HEADQUARTERS 7 OCTOBER 2026: Members of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) NORTHERN COMMAND- Abaco Team led by FCPO Torrey Forbes, joined Friends of the Environment in supporting the Northern Bahamas Mangrove Restoration Project on Monday, 28 September 2026.

The NORTHERN COMMAND- Abaco Team assisted with the collection of red mangrove propagules as part of a wider national initiative led by The Bahamas Mangrove Alliance, which aims to plant one million red mangrove propagules by the end of 2026. The Red Mangrove -Rhizophora mangle: Grows closest to the ocean with arched prop roots that stabilize the shoreline, filter salt, and provide underwater shelter.

Mangroves are essential to our ecosystem in The Bahamas. Seventy percent of marine life worldwide relies on mangroves for habitat. Mangroves improve our water quality, stabilize our coasts and trap carbon dioxide to keep the planet healthy. They protect low-lying communities by reducing flooding and acting as natural buffers from strong waves and powerful winds during storms. The protection they provide during extreme weather events such hurricanes and tsunamis is unmatched by any man-made barrier or structure to-date.

The Northern Bahamas Mangrove Restoration Project focuses on restoring mangrove ecosystems across Abaco and Grand Bahama that were significantly impacted by Hurricane Dorian. Mangroves play a vital role in protecting coastlines from erosion and storm surge while providing important habitats for marine life.

Senior Commander Omarv Saunders, Commanding Officer, NORTHERN COMMAND, commended the initiative and emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships with community organizations while supporting efforts that enhance coastal resilience and environmental protection.

Under the leadership of Commodore Floyd P. Moxey, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force remains committed to optimizing excellence, bridging generations and embracing modernization. As such, we are committed to environmental stewardship, community engagement and inter-agency cooperation.

15/10/2026

RBDF MARINES RECOGNIZED AFTER COMPLETING SPECIALIZED TRAINING

DEFENCE HEADQUARTERS, 7 October 2026 (RBDF): The Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) recognized Marines who successfully completed specialized Combat Diver, Combat Swimmer and Force Reconnaissance training during a certificate presentation at HMBS Coral Harbour.

The Combat Swimmer Course develops amphibious insertion and extraction, beach surveillance and reporting capabilities while testing participants’ physical endurance and tactical proficiency.

The Combat Diver qualification builds on the completion of the Military Dive, Force Reconnaissance and Combat Swimmer courses, preparing Marines to conduct subsurface operations using SCUBA.

Captain Sonia Miller, Captain Coral Harbour presented the Certificates marking an important achievement in their professional military educational development as they continue to build the knowledge, skills and practical experience to operate on land and at sea.

Commander Edward Fritz is the Commanding Officer of the Commando Squadron Department.

Under the leadership of Commander Defence Force, Commodore Floyd Moxey, the RBDF is optimizing excellence by bridging generations and embracing modernization. As such, we are committed to the professional development and specialized training for all Officers and Marines in order to maintain a mission-ready Force and Fleet to Guard Our Heritage.

15/10/2026

COMMANDER DEFENCE FORCE RECEIVES COURTESY CALL FROM HMBS FLAMINGO SURVIVOR

DEFENCE, HEADQUARTERS 7 October 2026 (RBDF): Mr. Caldwell Farrington, a survivor of the HMBS Flamingo Incident made a Courtesy Call on Commander Defence Force, Commodore Floyd Moxey at Defence Headquarters.

Mr. Caldwell Farrington seized the opportunity to present the Commander Defence Force with a copy of his book “Because of May 10th, 1980: The Flamingo Incident.” The book documents Farrington’s personal account and reflections surrounding the HMBS Flamingo incident, which is an important chapter in the history of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force.

The publication of ´Because of May 10th, 1980: The Flamingo Incident,”, serves to document for posterity the experiences and stories of those intimately connected to the incident. Farrington was a member of the crew of HMBS Flamingo, a 103-foot patrol vessel that departed New Providence for a routine 10-day patrol of Bahamian waters. “It all happened so fast – the attack, the swim, the sinking [of the HMBS Flamingo],” he wrote in his book.

The life of four dedicated young Marines were lost in the attack – DAVID TUCKER, FENRICK STURRUP, AUSTIN SMITH, AND EDWARD WILLIAMS.

Commander Defence Force Commodore Floyd Moxey expressed his gratitude to Mr Farrington for the authographed copy of Because of May 10th, 1980: The Flamingo Incident,” and commended him for his efforts to educate the younger generations of Bahamians on this significant event in Bahamian history.

Under the leadership of Commander Defence Force, Commodore Floyd Moxey, the RBDF is optimizing excellence by bridging generations and embracing modernization. As such, we remain committed to honouring our fallen heroes: Able Seaman FENRICK STURRUP, Marine Seaman AUSTIN SMITH, Marine Seaman DAVID TUCKER, and Marine Seaman EDWARD WILLIAMS, as well as supporting the families and survivors who continue to carry their legacy forward.

(RBDF Photo by: Marine Seaman Zachary Young)

14/10/2026

RBDF MARINES COMPLETE SPECIALIZED BOATSWAIN’S MATE COURSE
DEFENCE HEADQUARTERS, 30 SEPT. 2026 — The Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) Sea Training Department completed its 3rd Boatswain’s Mate Course, for the year, held from 14 to 30 September 2026, at HMBS Coral Harbour.
The three-weeks course focused on improving the Marines’ skills in deck operations, safety, and leadership. The Shipboard training included deck maintenance, anchoring, mooring, towing, and other duties required to support the safe and efficient operation of RBDF vessels.

The course also prepares Marines to support key operations, including Search and Rescue, maritime interdiction, and anti-terrorism operations, while maintaining the patrol craft and extending the operational life.

The newly qualified Boatswain’s Mates were presented with their Qualification Pins by Captain Sonia Miller, Captain Coral Harbour, marking the successful completion of the Boatswain’s Mate Course.

Captain Milton Munroe is the Sea Training Commander.

A Boatswain’s Mate stands as the critical link between the Officer’s intent and the Crew’s ex*****on, ensuring each vessel remains a floating fortress and that every Marine returns home safely. “A ship is only as sharp as its Bosun.”

Under the leadership of Commander Defence Force, Commodore Floyd Moxey, the RBDF is optimizing excellence by bridging generations and embracing modernization. As such, we are committed to the professional development and specialized training for all Officers and Marines in order to maintain a mission-ready Force and Fleet to Guard Our Heritage.

Royal Bahamas Defence Force

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