by The Hon. Michael Weeks, JP,  MP

Minster of national Security

The Progressive Labour Party Government remains steadfast in its support for the men and women who serve in the Royal Bermuda Regiment (RBR) and the Coast Guard Unit, recognising their vital role in youth development, leadership training, and safeguarding Bermuda’s shores.

The Ministry of National Security recently provided a comprehensive update to the House of Assembly on recent achievements, investments, and future plans for both units.

Developing Bermuda’s Future Leaders

From June 1st to 14th, the RBR held its Junior Non-Commissioned Officer Cadre Camp in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Held for the first time in three years, this essential leadership training equips future commanders with the skills needed to lead a section of eight soldiers.

• 18 Bermudian trainees participated, alongside regional peers from the Turks & Caicos Islands and Cayman Islands Regiments—demonstrating Bermuda’s strong role in regional cooperation and training.

Later in the summer, from June 27th to July 4th, the RBR hosted two successful youth leadership camps involving 40 young Bermudians:

• The Junior Leader Programme welcomed middle and high school students for a rigorous 7-day residential camp.

• Activities included foot drills, weapons training, live fire exercises, and an overnight field exercise.

• Their achievements were showcased in a well-attended passing out parade, with proud families and officials—including Junior Minister of National Security, Senator Lindsay Simmons—in attendance.

Inspiring Young Musicians

Running concurrently, the Regiment Band hosted a Junior Band Camp for 16 talented students aged 11 to 25.

• Led by dedicated college musicians and supported by experienced RBR band corporals, the camp provided training for future conductors and drum majors.

• Their final performance, held on July 16th, culminated in a stirring Beating of the Retreat ceremony at Cabinet Grounds.

Recruitment and Growth

On July 6th, the RBR launched its second recruit intake of the year:

• 36 new recruits joined, including 12 Bermudians and 24 from the Turks & Caicos Regiment.

• The foreign participation was fully funded by Turks & Caicos, helping the RBR optimise summer resources.

Recruits will now undergo a three-month continuation training course, boosting the RBR’s total strength to 283 personnel.

Maritime Guardians: The Coast Guard Unit

The Royal Bermuda Regiment Coast Guard, with 14 full-time and 22 reserve soldiers, remains fully mobilised for summer operations:

• In June alone, they conducted 136 patrols, monitored 284 vessels, issued 23 marine regulation tickets, made 4 arrests, and completed 10 search and rescue operations.

• The unit also engaged in joint operations with police, customs, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Modernising for the Future

A major advancement came with the installation of three forward-looking infrared (FLIR) cameras, valued at $172,000, funded by the UK’s Marine Coast Guard Agency and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office’s Blue Belt Blue Shield Project. These cameras vastly enhance nighttime surveillance and rescue capabilities.

Addressing Challenges

While successes are celebrated, the Coast Guard’s aging fleet of 11 vessels, mostly former police boats, poses limitations in range, safety, and performance. The Government has prioritised:

• Doubling the full-time Coast Guard team from 14 to 28 members.

• Constructing a new Coast Guard Station at the former St. David’s Post Office, due for completion in December 2025.

This new facility will reduce response times, improve oversight of fishing and customs, and strengthen emergency responses in the East End.

A Call to Serve

The Government proudly supports the dedicated men and women of the RBR and Coast Guard—and encourages young Bermudians to consider joining.

Service in the Regiment offers:

• Exceptional leadership training

• Technical and tactical skills development

• Peak physical fitness

• Opportunities for international travel and unique life experiences

The Royal Bermuda Regiment is more than a military institution—it is a launchpad for personal growth, national service, and excellence.

We honour their dedication and thank them for their ongoing contributions to Bermuda’s safety, development, and national pride.