The President of the Republic and Commander-in-Chief of the Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF), Dr. Patrick Herminie, presided over the annual promotion and commissioning ceremony for officers of the Seychelles Defence Forces at State House on Monday morning.
The ceremony marked an important milestone in the careers of several officers whose service, leadership, and professionalism were formally recognised.
During the ceremony, three officers were promoted from the rank of Major to Lieutenant Colonel: Lt Colonel Irene Pompee, Lt Colonel Jude Raoul, and Lt Colonel Hans Radegonde. Lt Colonel Hans Radegonde was promoted in absentia, as he is currently undertaking overseas training.
Captain Marcus Leste was promoted to the rank of Major and was also promoted in absentia due to overseas training commitments.
Five Lieutenants were promoted to the rank of Captain: Cpt Ron Jessie, Cpt Adrian Barbe, Cpt Samuel Cecile, Cpt Kurl Elizabeth, and Cpt Julian Morel.
In addition, two Second Lieutenants, Ryan Benstrong and Andy Mathieu, were promoted to the rank of Lieutenant.
Addressing the promoted officers, President Herminie congratulated them and emphasized that promotion within the Defence Forces signifies confidence, responsibility, and trust. He highlighted the importance of integrity, discipline, impartiality, and loyalty to the Constitution and the Republic as defining qualities of military leadership.
“When a nation promotes an officer, it reaffirms its trust in their character, judgment, and commitment to serve,” the President stated.
President Herminie noted the presence of a strong cohort of young officers among those promoted, describing them as essential to the continued renewal and modernization of the Defence Forces. He encouraged officers who were not promoted this year to remain committed to their professional growth.
The President reaffirmed the Government’s continued support for the Seychelles Defence Forces and thanked all members for their dedication to national service.
Also present for the ceremony was Vice-President Sebastien Pillay, Major General Michael Rosette and members of the Seychelles Defence Forces council.