So, after that plane landed and suspects were caught on the move, it is a day of both shame and celebration for the security forces. Tonight all those pounds of cocaine re secured and under heavy guard, but so are three lawmen who allegedly had some involvement in the drug plane's movements.
That's why this morning, as the Belize Defence Force celebrated its Forty-third anniversary it was with some mixed feelings - after all, the Commander's driver was in police custody along with two bales of cocaine. When the cops took his picture, they turned his shirt inside out, perhaps to lessen the shame on the BDF.
And the BDF is a loud, fighting force; it was first formed on January 1st, 1978 when the Belize Volunteer Guards and the Police Special Force amalgamated into one entity. Since then, Belize's army has grown in size, strength, and resources. Today, they celebrated their first BDF Day under the new PUP Ministers of National Defence and Border Security, and the Ministry CEO, all of whom are former soldiers.
Here's what the leaders of the BDF had to say about this important milestone in their history:
Hon. Florencio Marin Jr. - Minister of National Defense
"Today is a special special day for those who have served, are serving, and to all who have contributed to the BDF in one way or another. We are all committed to defending our great nation. What we need as a people is faith in ourselves, the direction in our efforts, determination to attain our national goals, and solidarity to work continuously toward national progress. Under this administration, the National leadership will provide the vision and direction to march forward. As we commemorate the 43rd Anniversary of the BDF, I urge all our men and women in uniform, our civilian employees of the BDF, veterans, and their families, to set the example and serve as a source of pride and inspiration for the rest of the country. I congratulate you on your achievements in bringing honor and glory, not only to the BDF but to our country and people."
Brig. Gen. Steven Ortega - Commander, BDF
"It's a milestone for us in that at this time we acknowledge people who have set the foundation for the BDF. And we also showcase ourselves to the future [persons] who are expected to come into the Force. So, it is a very joyous and happy time for us."
Reporter
"Where do you see the BDF in the next 5 or 10 years?"
Brig. Gen. Steven Ortega
"If you notice our operations continue to grow. So, we expect the numbers for the Force to grow, as our commitment grows. And with growth comes all the necessary assets and resources that go along with that."
Hon. Florencio Marin Jr.
"One thing I'm really glad to see, I know Minister Mira and I agree on this, where the standards that we had in our time are still being maintained by the young men and women. So, we're very proud. We want to congratulate our men and women in the BDF, from the General down, happy BDF Day, and please keep up the good work, shoulder to shoulder."
Reporter
"Sir, where would you like to see the BDF in terms of the operations and capabilities under your leadership for the next 5 years, or for your term?"
Hon. Florencio Marin Jr.
"Definitely that we'll be able to have patrols on our borders much more. Right now, as you know, with all the constraints of the country, we're helping out with the quarantine efforts. BDF is always called for many things like disaster mitigation. If we could get a little bit more resources to be able to be on the border and maintain a stronger presence, along our border."
