By Aabigayle McIntosh

Chief of Defence Staff of the Antigua & Barbuda Defence Force Colonel Telbert Benjamin, has been promoted to the rank of Brigadier General, effective August 26, 2024, following approval by the Defence Board.

Brigadier General Telbert Benjamin, who was appointed CDS on March 20, 2020, has served the nation with dedication for 29 years in various appointments.

Brigadier General Telbert L.A Benjamin (Antigua Barbuda Defense Force)

He was recognized during a special ceremony held at Government House earlier today.

Among those congratulating him on this special occasion were His Excellency, Governor General Sir Rodney Williams.

“The promotion to the rank of Brigadier is an important milestone not just for Colonel Benjamin, but for the Antigua and Barbuda Defense Force as a whole. This promotion will reserve the rank of Colonel as the standard rank for the post of Chief of Defense Staff of future appointments or until such time as the Defence Force Board or related legislation directs otherwise,”

“Based on advice from local and regional experts in modern military services a Brigadier can serve as the commander of a country’s military. Brigadiers are usually officers with over 20 to 30 years of experience,” he added.

Commissioner of Police Atlee Rodney also commended the newly promoted Brigadier and committed to continue to work together with the ABDF for the betterment of Antigua and Barbuda.

“We pledge our continued working relationship and collaboration with the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force. Let us continue to combine our efforts to enhance the national security landscape of our nation,” Rodney said.

Brigadier Benjamin, in his remarks, said the accolade is not just for him, but for the ABDF.

“Be assured that we will continue to pursue excellence as we serve this country. Be assured that this country remains first in everything that the ABDF does,” Benjamin said.

In addition to Brigadier Benjamin, Soldiers Jordane Mellanson, Jonelle Walsh, Sandra Betances and Billie Lewis were promoted to the rank of Lieutenant.