The Papua New Guinea Defence Force is undergoing transformation.
In his address at the end-of-year parade this morning at Murray Barracks, PNGDF Commander, Brigadier-General Gilbert Toropo, said 2017 has been very successful for the PNGDF.
This goes as well for the dedication and commitment of all ranks in the Force.
Toropo said while the PNGDF have been beset by financial and other challenges this year as with previous years, they have achieved some tremendous results as well.
“We have continued to transform the Force while undertaking our core tasks with commitment and professionalism.”
Toropo highlighted some significant tasks that were undertaken successfully this year like the amnesty program in Hela Province to recover illegal firearms. This saw the commitment extend through the election and post-election period.
“The fact that we could do this, is a strong testament to the professionalism, attitude and flexibility of the force,” he stressed.
The Force has maintained these activities, along with the need to continue APEC planning and to meet with border and patrol obligations.
Toropo added that just recently, they successfully completed support for the first APEC senior officials meeting and are currently looking forward to completing their mandated border patrols by Christmas.
“We can all reflect on a highly productive year as we celebrate and enjoy the holidays; hopefully returning refreshed and ready for an equally productive and challenging year in 2018.”
A good crowd of more than 500 people were present to witness the PNGDF end-of-year parade, which also featured the performance of the Force’s latest inclusion; its brass band.
The event also saw a fly over of the PNGDF CASA and helicopter over the parade ground for the first time as well.