A number of recently-promoted Royal Bermuda Regiment soldiers were celebrated at the military outfit’s annual Battalion Night last week.

The evening was also an opportunity to reflect on the “remarkable growth in competency“ that has seen the regiment expand its operational capabilities, according to its commanding officer.

Lieutenant-Colonel Ben Beasley said the morale-boosting event was “a chance to remind all our personnel what we have achieved as a unit, but also to conduct public promotions, which is the most gratifying of all my duties”.

A total of 13 soldiers have climbed up the ranks, with three privates getting promoted to lance corporal, seven lance corporals moving up to full corporal, and three soldiers obtaining the rank of sergeant.

Several of those who had earned their stripes spoke of how the organisation had helped them develop.

Newly promoted Lance Corporal Ronesha James-Dill took part in the tough Potential Junior Non-Commissioned Officers cadre.

The 21-year-old warehouse assistant from Pembroke who joined up in 2021, said: “The most challenging part for me was dropping my old behaviours and having to mature.

“It has definitely changed me for the better, it helped me become a better woman overall. There is always room to grow and I hope moving up through the ranks helps me do that.”

With plans to become a drill instructor, Lance Corporal James-Dill said that the regiment provided a sense of unity.

She said: “We are all the same. We wear the same thing, we bleed the same and we’re all there for similar purposes.

“It’s the first time that I’ve actually felt included in something without being segregated for things out of my control, hence why I love and will always love drill.”

Sergeant Nigel Lee, 31, noted that the regiment offers guidance in self-improvement both in and out of the unit, as well as opportunities for travel, and good remuneration.

On his change in rank, the ZipX clearance agent, from Sandys, said: “I’m very excited. I’ve worked very hard to get this promotion, I’m going to enjoy it.

“I’m looking forward to the experience that will come with it and learning new things – that’s the main thing.”

Among those promoted from lance corporal to corporal was Leeann Medeiros, a minibus driver in her civilian life who is a member of the RBR Coastguard.

The 31-year-old, from Sandys, offered a message to people who might consider joining the regiment:

She said: “If you’re looking to expand your extended family and learn new skills, even looking for assistance with your personal goals, it’s a great place to be.”

Summing up the regiment’s year, Colonel Beasley said that the various arms of the group had reached new levels of professionalism and performance.

He said: “The RBR Coastguard's remarkable growth in competency underscores our expanding operational capabilities.

“Through A Company, the RBR's expertise in public order and force protection training marks us as the preferred training delivery unit in the Caribbean, highlighting our ability to project influence beyond our size.

“For the first time in our history, and largely attributable to the ceremonial professionalism in B Company, we marched as part of the British Army’s Order of Battle for the King's Coronation parade in London with one of our Colours, while continuing to be the centre of national ceremonial events.

“Training Company ensures that new recruits receive the best training possible while also facilitating leadership, command and technical training for all personnel throughout their military careers.

“The regiment's commitment to the community and the nurturing of future leaders through the Junior Leaders programme reflects its dedication to societal development and youth engagement.

“Our involvement in Exercise Tradewinds required moving 150 soldiers to Guyana, with all the right equipment and providing the medical, transport, feeding and accommodation required for a gruelling two weeks, which the Logistics Company executed with excellence.”

Colonel Beasley said that the RBR’s success was largely attributable to its officers' and soldiers' dedication and skill, which would not be possible without the unwavering support of their families and employers.

He said: “I hope the wider community will take time over the many social gatherings this festive season to hear from a soldier what they enjoy about the Royal Bermuda Regiment. There has never been a better time to join us.”

• For more information about the RBR, or to join, clickhere or call 238-1045.