The T&T Defence Force has welcomed Government’s move to establish a fund from which $1 million can be drawn to add to the estate of any serviceman or woman killed in the line of duty. The TTDF issued an immediate response after Finance Minister Larry Howai announced it. Chief of Defence Staff Major Gen Kenrick Maharaj said he was pleased.
He said: “The T&T Defence Force commends the Government for acknowledging the magnitude of the contribution and the level of sacrifice made by members of the Defence Force and state protective services.” He said the proposal “underscores the State’s recognition of the risks faced daily and the ultimate sacrifice men and women of the Defence Force and the protective services are called upon to make and have made to protect and ensure the safety of each citizen of this country.
“While this allocation can in no way compensate for the loss of a soldier, sailor, airman or woman, it will go a long way in easing the financial burden that goes along with the loss of a breadwinner and will also provide a brighter future for those loved ones left behind.”
While he hoped no member of the force would ever have to access these funds, he added: “The reality is that our troops live and operate in an environment where we need to prepare for the worst. This gesture by the State is indeed welcome and we are most grateful.” Maharaj said the many roles of the Defence Force included providing operational and tactical support to the police through joint patrols, protecting the borders and ensuring peace and stability in the country.
“This requires a constant and consistent level of dedication and loyalty to promote the peace and stability within our society,” he pointed out, saying the proposal was a necessary initiative, given the environment in which the protective services worked.
“The threats and dangers which these members face on a daily basis are both unpredictable and unprecedented. We as servicemen and women have pledged our lives to the service of the nation and this initiative is certainly in keeping with international best practice,” he added.
He said similar initiatives had been established in the United States and Canada and those countries “and now ours, have recognised the value in persons who dedicate their lives in protecting the state and ensuring stability, peace and a sense of freedom that can be enjoyed.”