GOVERNOR’S HARBOUR, Eleuthera, Bahamas – The National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, in partnership with the United States Northern Command recently conducted a Surface Water Rescue Course, Level I & II for residents on this island, home of the world famous ‘Glass Window Bridge.’

The course was conducted March 9 -13, 2015 at the District Chief Council Building, Cupid’s Cay, Governor’s Harbour for 12 participants inclusive comprising six Royal Bahamas Police Force Officers, five community members and one NEMA personnel.

The purpose of the training was to provide techniques and skills to members of the community in conducting Surface Water Rescues and Rescue Tasks. The objectives were to enhance execution of tasks, enhance communication between rescuers and provide a guide for ongoing training.

Upon completion, participants were presented with certificates in technical, operational and awareness skills.

Trained were Byron Brown, Clyde Pedican, Gustavis Roker, Katlyn Cooper, Michael Roberts, Darvado Simmons, Dominic Turnquest, Ricardo Pinder, Thomas Gibson, Lionel Fernander, Frederick Decosta, and Chrystal Glinton.

Course facilitators were: Jeffrey Smith, United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM); Captain Joseph Hughart, United States Department of Health and Human Services; Captain John Holland, United States Department of Health and Human Services; Captain Stephen Russell, Director, NEMA; Superintendent of Police, Christopher Wright, Royal Bahamas Police Force, Officer in Charge of Eleuthera; Andrew Williams, Chief Immigration Officer, Eleuthera; Luke Bethel, course coordinator, and NEMA; Wendell Rigby, Logistics Officer, NEMA.