“Today marks an important milestone as 90 promising recruits transition to Immigration Officers entrusted with protecting The Commonwealth of The Bahamas. Your achievement reflects your discipline, and willingness to answer the call to serve your country,” said Minister of State for Immigration the Hon. Darron Pickstock at a Passing Out Ceremony of the Immigration Department’s ‘Squad A Class of 2026’, October 22, at Police Training College.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Immigration, I congratulate the officers of The Bahamas Immigration Squad A, Class of 2026, on your successful completion of training and passing-out ceremony.
“A strong nation depends on the strength of its defenses and the men and women entrusted with protecting its people. Without security, there can be no lasting peace. As Officers, you will play a vital role in protecting our islands, securing our ports of entry, enforcing immigration laws, and preserving the integrity of our nation.”
State Minister Pickstock continued, “As we continue to develop and progress as a nation, we must continue to fight the perennial arrival of irregular migrants. Further, you are also tasked with slowing the traffic of guns and drugs throughout our country. Therefore, your work is essential and your efforts and skills are indispensable.
“As you begin this new chapter, I encourage you to face every challenge with courage, resolve and integrity.”
State Minister Pickstock pointed out
, “You will have to make many decisions throughout your career and life – some simple and straightforward, some difficult. Those difficult decisions will be a struggle.
“As you face those decisions, remember what Mark Twain said: ‘Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest.’
“Doing the right thing isn’t always easy, but you will always maintain your integrity by doing so.”
State Minister Pickstock pointed out to the graduating recruits: “As Immigration Officers, you hold a degree of power and authority that should never be abused or misapplied. You will encounter a variety of challenging and, at times, difficult situations as an officer.; however, you must always project the highest level of professionalism, attentiveness, and honesty.
“These values also apply to all aspects of your life. Your responsibilities do not end when you are no longer in uniform, because your behavior and actions – both positive and negative – are a reflection of both your character and our department.
“Wear your uniform with pride, knowing that your service contributes directly to our national safety and security.”
