President Bostic Receives Honorary Degree From Inter-American Defence College

President of Barbados, His Excellency, The Most Honourable Jeffrey Bostic, delivered the featured address at the 63rd Graduation Ceremony of the Inter-American Defence College (IADC) at Organisation of American States, marking a historic moment for Barbados and the wider Caribbean.

The President, who was the first Barbadian to attend the College’s flagship training programme, returned to the institution in his official capacity to address graduates, representing military and civilian leadership from across the hemisphere.

During the ceremony, the College conferred the Honorary Master of Science Degree in Inter-American Defence and Security on His Excellency, in recognition of his distinguished service and contributions to hemispheric security cooperation.

In his remarks, the President underscored the shared responsibility of the region’s defence and security professionals. “Nineteen flags entered this hall. They represent different paths, but they converge on one responsibility: to keep the Americas safe, free, and open. You now have the language to talk across services and across borders. You have the network to act faster than the threat.”

He encouraged graduates to transform their training into strategic action. “Go back to your respective countries and be the leaders who turn dialogue into action. Be the leaders who turn partners into allies. Be the leaders who turn a fragmented threat landscape into a coordinated defence of our shared home.”

Reflecting on the enduring impact of the IADC, His Excellency reminded the class that their connection to the institution did not end with graduation. 

“Your period of instruction has ended; you must bid adieu to cherished friends and your home here at Fort McNair. But believe me when I tell you, you do not leave this College today. We never do. We carry it with us, into our ministries, our commands, our embassies, and our respective countries and communities. So, take your post. Hold your sector. Honour your watch. Because from this day forward, your watch begins NOW.”

The ceremony also celebrated the achievement of Major Shane Drakes of the Barbados Defence Force, who graduated as part of the Class 65. His success reflects Barbados’ continued investment in advanced defence education and its growing leadership role within the Inter-American security community.

The Inter-American Defence College, established in 1962, provides strategic-level education to military, police, and civilian officials from across the Americas, strengthening cooperation and shared understanding among partner nations. (PR/GIS)

Caption: President of Barbados The Most Honourable Jeffrey Bostic (centre) poses with graduate of the Inter-American Defence College’s (IADC) Class 65, Major Shane Drakes (left) of the Barbados Defence Force and Defence and Naval Attaché to the Barbados Embassy in Washington D.C., Commander Ryan Alleyne, at the IADC’s 63rd Graduation Ceremony, recently.