The Tribune

Coral Harbour Base, March 13 – Leading Seaman Themo Berkley of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force was awarded the 2012 distinguished Leon Smith Award of Excellence with a plaque and a floating trophy for his outstanding performance over the past year at the annual Award Ceremony for Defence Force officers and marines at the Coral Harbour Base on February 27.

Forty-six additional awards were also presented to other members of the Defence Force based on the individual’s work performance and their contributions toward fulfilling the vision and goals set by the command.

Also during the ceremony, 15 Defence Force Marines were recipients of the Commander Defence Force’s Commendation Ribbons in recognition of appreciation for their outstanding performances over the past year.

Captain Clyde Sawyer made brief remarks at the ceremony, and encouraged those receiving awards and those attending to maintain their work performances.

A 1994 graduate of the Government High School, Leading Seaman Berkley joined the Royal Bahamas Defence Force in April 1995.

He has served in the Squadron Department and aboard every class vessel in his eighteen years on the Force. He is currently stationed aboard the Enduring Friendship fast patrol craft, P-125.
 “I was shocked when my name was called, but I am nevertheless thankful to those who voted for me. It is through hard work and dedication that I perform my duties, no matter how rough it seems.

“I don’t wait for others to motivate me, I push myself,” said Leading Seaman Berkley on receiving the Leon Smith Award of Excellence.