South African Consulate Commemorates RBDF Change of Command and Shared Rescue History
The South African Consulate in The Bahamas extends its warmest congratulations to Commodore Floyd P. Moxey on his appointment as the new Commander of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) and salutes the distinguished service of Commodore E. Raymond King, who officially relinquished command during today’s historic 8th Change of Command Ceremony at HMBS Coral Harbour.
As Honorary Consul of the Republic of South Africa to the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, I was honoured to attend the formal ceremony alongside national dignitaries including Her Excellency the Governor-General, the Prime Minister, and the Minister of National Security. The ceremony stood as a powerful reminder of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force’s unwavering commitment to national security, military professionalism, and service to the people of The Bahamas.
On a personal note, having served in the Swiss Armed Forces early in my career, I hold deep respect for the traditions, discipline, and responsibilities of military service. Witnessing the precision, dignity, and symbolism of today’s handover stirred a profound sense of camaraderie and recognition. The values that bind service members across uniforms and borders, honour, courage, and duty, remain a universal language.
The occasion also provides an opportunity to reflect on moments of deep cooperation and shared values between our two nations. One such moment was Operation Mandela, a courageous search and rescue mission led by Kasimu Ellis, a former member and instructor in the Commando unit of the RBDF, in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian in 2019. The mission was undertaken at my request, in close coordination with the South African High Commission in Kingston, Jamaica under the leadership of High Commissioner Lumka Yengeni, after reports emerged of South African nationals stranded in Marsh Harbour, Abaco. Under Kasimu Ellis’s leadership, a RBDF unit was deployed into the disaster zone, successfully locating and evacuating the individuals to safety in Nassau. From there, they were able to return home to South Africa. The courage, discipline, and compassion displayed throughout the mission reflect the highest ideals of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force. It was not only a demonstration of exemplary operational capability, but also a powerful testament to the strength of South Africa - Bahamas diplomatic cooperation in times of crisis.
As the RBDF turns the page to a new chapter under the leadership of Commodore Moxey, we remain confident in the continued strength of the Force, and deeply appreciative of the enduring spirit of cooperation between our nations. We wish Commodore King every success in his next chapter and commend him for his exemplary leadership during some of The Bahamas’ most trying times.
Watch the full Change of Command Ceremony broadcast by ZNS here.
Issued by:
Werner Gruner
Honorary Consul
South African Consulate
