An intense and disturbing video started whipping around WhatsApp circles today. It shows BDF soldiers - in extremis - praying for a fellow soldier. Clutching each other tightly, the men spoke to God as they sat atop another soldier, who didn't appear to be fully conscious. The video sparked interest, causing the Belize Defence Force to do some investigation.
Their statement says that on Tuesday, around 9PM, a soldier sought out a superior officer for prayer and support while he was going through some personal issues. During this prayer session though, the soldier seemingly experienced some loss of memory, which may have explained his lack of consciousness.
The release then goes on to say quote, The BDF does not infringe on any of its members' rights to any belief system nor does any measure exist to seek to coerce any member from using the established care systems in place… the BDF informs all that the video circulating is not an official method of care provided by the BDF for any of its members" End quote. These established care systems include formal medical hospital and counselling/care systems.
The soldier, who appears in good health, has since been directed to the
medical facility to clear him of any physical damage and will be encouraged to seek out formal counselling.
