Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey assured 68 graduates of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force Rangers Cadet program that the initiative is meant to mold young lives, and build good foundation. She encouraged the new cadets to continue to build, and plan for an exciting and bright future, not just for themselves, but for Grand Bahama and the entire nation.
Officially installing the 68 boys and girls from various schools throughout the island of Grand Bahama as Ranger Cadets during the Passing Out Parade on Saturday, May 30, 2026, on the grounds of Worker’s House, Minister Moxey welcomed them to a new chapter of the program, to purpose, pride and possibility.
“For thirty years, since 1995, the RBDF Rangers program has quietly and powerfully transformed lives,” said Minister Moxey. “It began at the Donald Davis Secondary School, with a bold goal – to redirect challenged male junior high school students to becoming productive members of their school and communities.
“Today, that seed has grown into a mighty tree. Let me give you the numbers, because numbers tell a story of commitment. Forty schools in New Providence, 26 schools in our Family Islands, including Grand Bahama, Abaco, Eleuthera and Andros.
“Ladies and gentlemen, this isn’t just a program, it’s a movement.”
Minister Moxey pointed out that the Rangers’ program successfully grew from a single school to 66 schools across this Commonwealth. It expanded from a handful of young men to thousands of young Bahamians – young men and women – whom she noted, have learned over the years that leadership is earned, that discipline is freedom and that The Bahamas needs them.
To the people of Grand Bahama, the Minister noted that the government has not forgotten them. She added that the government has not forgotten all that has happened with the hurricanes that passed through the island; they have not forgotten the economic challenges the island faces, or that the nation’s greatest resources are not sun, sand and sea, but its people.
“That is why the Rangers program here at Northern Command is not an afterthought. It is a priority,” said Minister Moxey.
“Today, we are building resilience, not just in infrastructure, but in the human spirit. The young cadets standing before me are proof that when we invest in mentorship, create training, sports, drill, physical and dance teams, as well as the new pop band and give young people structure and purpose, they rise.
Minister Moxey commended Commanders, officers, senior and junior ranks of the Royal Bahamas Defense Force Youth Development Office, and all parents and guardians present at the graduation for the part they played in helping the 68 graduates complete the program.
“As a nation, we remain eternally grateful for your commitment, your sacrifice and your service to Bahamian youth.”
