AFL Graduates 37 NCOs

AFL Graduates 37 NCOs

The hierarchy of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, graduated 37 non-commissioned officers (NCOs) from the Basic Leader Course (BLC) Class 02-25.

The training, according to a release, was held at the Armed Forces Training Command (AFTC) in Camp Sandee Ware, Careysburg, outside Monrovia.

The nine-week course, designed to enhance the leadership, managerial, and decision-making skills of junior leaders, marked a significant milestone in the AFL professional development program for its enlisted corps. The event brought together senior government officials, AFL top brass, international military partners, instructors, family members, and friends.

During the program, four outstanding students (soldiers) were recognized for their “exceptional performance and dedication.”

Distinguished Honor Graduate Award–Staff Sergeant Victor F. Obadimu, Honor Graduate Award – Staff Sergeant Eric K. Haynes, Leadership Award–Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin B. Konyon, while Sergeant Jerry G. Railey received the Superior Army Physical Fitness Award.

These awards reflect their exemplary conduct, commitment, and achievement in meeting the highest standards throughout the course.

Keynote Address–Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon

In his keynote address, House Speaker of the 55^th Legislature, Richard Nagbe Koon, commended the graduates for their dedication and perseverance.

Koon congratulated the 40 NCOs who began the course, and saluted the 37, who successfully completed it, describing the BLC as “not just a training program, but a call to duty.”

“The strength of an army is not measured solely by the size of its weapon, but by the quality of its leaders,” Speaker Koon said. He reminded the graduates that NCOs are “the bridge between the vision of the officers and the execution of the mission,” and that leadership in uniform is grounded in trust, competence, integrity, and care for subordinates.

He urged them to live by the Army’s core values—loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage—warning against complacency and fear.

“Remember, your service is not only to the [Armed Forces], but to every Liberian who looks to you as a guardian of peace and security.”

CoS Remarks

In his address earlier, AFL Chief of Staff (CoS) Major/General David Forleh applauded the graduates and underscored the importance of discipline, responsibility, and professionalism.

Forleh used a humorous anecdote about a commander and a strict “lady in charge of the chicken,” as he emphasized that true leadership means taking charge and doing the right thing, regardless of status.

He challenged the new NCOs to apply their skills in the field and to avoid actions, especially on social media that could tarnish the AFL image.

“A lot is expected. Don’t screw up. You are not just leaders, you are managers of people and resources,” he said.

Maj/Gen. Forleh also revealed ongoing efforts to expand AFL facilities and improve troop welfare, announcing new barracks in Sanniquellie and Kakata.

Meanwhile, Forleh has appealed for sustained recruitment, targeting 500 new personnel annually to bolster the AFL presence in all the counties.

Int’l Partner’s Perspective–U.S. Embassy

A representative from the U.S. Embassy Office of Security Cooperation, praised the AFL commitment to training and leadership development, drawing parallels between the AFL and the U.S. military.

He identified two core pillars of military success: the warrior ethos—honor, courage, and commitment—and continuous, rigorous training.

“In my experience, NCOs are more than the backbone—they are the armed forces. When officers give orders, it is the NCOs who make them happen. You are the standard-bearers your soldiers will emulate,” he said, encouraging the graduates to continue developing their troops once back in their units.

Commandant Remarks–Colonel Kezzelee G. Gwesa

Col. KG Gwesa toasted the graduates on their “excellence and resilient spirit,” noting that an NCO’s two primary responsibilities are “mission accomplishment and the welfare of soldiers.”

Gwesa affirmed that the AFTC will monitor their progress and prepare them for advanced leadership training.

He also commended the instructors, support staff, and cooks whose dedication ensured the courses success, and thanked Maj/Gen. Forleh for his mentorship and support. “We envisage that this training will serve as a hallmark for your future evaluation. Lead with courage, honor, and fairness,” Col. Gwesa told the graduates.

A Step Toward AFL Modernization

The Basic Leadership Course (BLC) is a cornerstone of the AFL modernization efforts, aimed at building a corps of capable, ethical, and visionary NCO leaders. Graduates are now equipped to bridge command intent with frontline execution, mentor junior soldiers, and uphold country’s flag with pride both at home and in international peacekeeping missions.

As the AFL continues to expand and strengthen its ranks, the leadership and skills demonstrated by BLC Class 02-25 will be vital in shaping the force future.

Source: Office of Public Affair