BDF calls back veterans

The Barbados Defence Force (BDF) is making a fresh appeal to former service members to temporarily rejoin the force as it seeks to strengthen its operations in the interest of national security.

The force has put out a public appeal through social media, targeting veterans aged 18 to 50, offering short-term re-enlistment for three to six months.

But the move comes with conditions: only those honourably discharged, physically and mentally fit, and formerly ranked sergeant or below need apply.

While the BDF has not disclosed how many former members have responded so far, a spokesperson framed the initiative as a necessary step to “combat all threats to safeguard our nation’s peace”.

The recruitment drive unfolds as the BDF continues its collaboration with the Barbados Police Service under the Military Assistance to the Civil Power (MACP) programme – a partnership that has placed soldiers alongside officers in joint operations.

Yet behind the scenes, some serving troops have called for more clarity on how the initiative will be implemented.

“Even though the call outlines physical and mental fitness as requirements, some of us are wondering how that will actually be assessed,” one soldier told Barbados TODAY, questioning whether returnees would face modern-day evaluations like psychometric testing.

“The job isn’t the same as it was 10 or 15 years ago, and we want to know if returning personnel will be tested to today’s operational standards.”

Another area of concern is promotions. With only junior ranks eligible to return, some worry that reintegrating veterans could harm advancement opportunities for those already in line for a step up.

“There are soldiers who’ve been waiting to move up,” another service member admitted. “We just want reassurance that bringing people back won’t cause stagnation or confusion within the ranks.”

The BDF, however, insists the focus remains squarely on national security. “The sole aim of this operation is to bolster the BDF’s efforts… through security and joint operations,” the spokesperson reiterated, adding that the force remains “resolute in its commitment to safeguard the interests of all Barbadians”.

The BDF is urging eligible veterans to step forward. Applications are being processed through the Human Resources Department (536-2046) and the force’s official social media channels.
(SM)