BARBADOS DEFENCE FORCE PRESS RELEASE Change of Command and Promotions
(Garrison, Barbados 1 September 2024) Headquarters Barbados Defence Force, under the authority of the President of Barbados, Her Excellency, the Most Honourable Dame Sandra Mason, and published in The Official Gazette dated 29 August 2024, formally announces the following promotions and appointments with effect 18 September 2024:
1. Lieutenant Colonel Carlos Lovell’s promotion to the rank of Brigadier and appointment to the post of Chief of Staff, on contract, for four (4) years.
2. Commander Mark Peterson’s promotion to the rank of Captain (Naval) and appointment to the post of Deputy Chief of Staff.
3. Major Julia DaBreo’s promotion to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and appointment to the post of Commanding Officer of the Barbados Regiment.
4. Lieutenant Commander Derrick Brathwaite’s promotion to the rank of Commander and appointment to the post of Commanding Officer Barbados Coast Guard.
Lieutenant Colonel Carlos Lovell is a highly qualified senior officer who brings to the post of Chief of Staff, a wealth of military experience, passion, energy and a vision to take the Force into the future. His recent postings were Military Advisor to the Chief of Staff, Principal Staff Officer, Commanding Officer of the Barbados Regiment and Aide-de-Camp to the former Governor-General of Barbados. He has demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, vision and strategic acumen in his various appointments. Lt Col Lovell will succeed Commodore Errington Shurland who will officially retire from the Barbados Defence Force on 18 September 2024. Commodore Shurland will be promoted to Rear Admiral and continue his duties as Executive Director of the Regional Security System. Lt Col Lovell stated “I am truly honoured, and humbled, by the confidence reposed in me to lead this Barbados Defence Force which comprises the bravest, most disciplined, and committed officers and soldiers in the Caribbean. I eagerly look forward to this opportunity to build on the successes of Cdre Shurland and to
positively impact the lives of the men and women under my command. I firmly believe that, once we work together, we can overcome any obstacle in pursuit of Excellence.”
In the execution of his duties, Lt Col Lovell will be ably assisted by Commander Mark Peterson as Deputy Chief of Staff. Cdr Peterson also brings to the Force a wealth of experience and a distinguished record of service to this vital role. He has demonstrated notable leadership, strategic acumen and an unwavering dedication to the mission of the Barbados Defence Force. Cdr Peterson has served as Staff Advisor to the Chief of Staff, Commanding Officer of the Barbados Coast Guard and Staff Officer Operations and Training. With a deep understanding of the Force’s core values and mandate, Cdr Peterson noted that, “I am truly humbled and appreciative of this appointment and opportunity to serve the Barbados Defence Force and wider Barbados. I am excited about the Force’s future and look forward to working with this outstanding body of committed men and women to achieve our objectives and uphold the high standards of the Barbados Defence Force.”
As the members of the Barbados Defence Force anticipate its Change of Command ceremonial aspects, Cdre Shurland has been instrumental in strategically positioning the Force to plan for its modern operational environment; while mitigating against all threats to safeguard Barbados’ interests. Cdre Shurland reflected that “It has been a privilege to serve with such a unique and dedicated set of people, who sacrifice daily and contribute to the Force’s mission and Barbados’ development.” He further noted that he has all the confidence in Lieutenant Colonel Lovell’s and Commander Peterson’s abilities to lead this and the future Barbados Defence Force with purposeful dedication and vision.
Headquarters Barbados Defence Force announces that a formal Change of Command Parade and Sunset Ceremony will be held on Wednesday 18 September 2024, at St Ann’s Fort at 4.30 PM. The ceremony will be attended by members of the Government, the Defence Board, the Diplomatic Corps, senior officials, military personnel, specially guests and members of the media.
For further information please contact the Barbados Defence Force’s Office of Communications, Civil Military Affairs and Media via 1-246536-2992.