Prime Minister Davis’s Remarks at the HMBS Flamingo Memorial Service

Good morning,

It is a privilege to be here today to honour the legacy of the Fallen Four.

On this solemn occasion, we remember the crew of HMBS Flamingo, who were lost in the line of duty in 1980.

We begin by honouring their memory, because what we remember shapes who we become as a nation. And today, we remember a moment that has never left our national consciousness.

On May 10th, 1980, HMBS Flamingo was deployed in our southern-most seas. In those early days of the Force, with just a handful of vessels tasked with patrolling nearly one hundred thousand square miles of ocean, the responsibility was immense.

Their duties were clear. They were to guard against poachers, confront drug trafficking, and intercept irregular migration across our waters.

They carried these duties out courageously, not allowing fear to override their sense of duty and responsibility to their nation. 

Today, we honour the Fallen Four: Able Seaman Fenrick Sturrup, Marine Seaman Austin Smith, Marine Seaman David Tucker, and Marine Seaman Edward Williams.

Their loss marked a defining and painful chapter in our national history. It is a moment that carries weight for the Defence Force, and for our entire country.

At the time, Sir Lynden condemned the attack as a deliberate act of aggression. 

He took the matter to the international stage, lodging an official complaint with the United Nations Security Council. And in response, he made a vow that has shaped the strength and reach of our Force ever since: to build a Defence Force capable of safeguarding our waters and protecting our national sovereignty.

That vision endures today.

Forty-five years into the life of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, we see Sir Lynden’s vision in steady development and continued investment. 

From its earliest inception, the Force has grown from an idea into a central part of our national foundation.

That commitment shows in our development of housing for officers and marines, for the first time ever, improving the conditions under which they live.

It shows in the ongoing expansion of manpower, in improved operational capacity, and in modern equipment designed to strengthen our Force’s readiness and response.

It shows in the increased investment in maritime security infrastructure, including new patrol vessels equipped with coastal radar systems that strengthen our ability to monitor and protect our vast waters.

These investments reflect our commitment to the fundamental mission first set out in the earliest days of the Force.

To the families of the Fallen Four, we extend our deepest and most sincere sympathies. The sinking of HMBS Flamingo remains a defining moment in our national story.

It is a moment we will never forget.

And for those who serve every day, the memory of these men is a reminder of courage and sacrifice. It is a reminder carried both in ceremony and in the daily commitment of those who wear the uniform and stand watch.

To all members of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, I extend sincere gratitude for your continued service. And to your families, whose support makes that service possible, we offer equal appreciation.

The People’s Force has grown from a vision into a vital national institution, carrying the responsibility first set in motion at its founding.

May Almighty God continue to bless and protect the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, its marines, officers, and their families. And may He continue to bless the Commonwealth of The Bahamas as we honour the past and strengthen the future together.