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Last Updated: Feb 13, 2017 - 1:45:37 AM |
RBDF Photo shows: Leading Seaman Sands proudly displaying his certificate of Bachelors of
Arts degree at HMBS Coral Harbour.
Photo shows from left: Acting Lieutenant Commander Sonia Miller, Leading Seaman Sands and
Captain Tellis A. Bethel, Commander Defence Force (Acting).
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Coral Harbour Base, 16 AUG. (RBDF) – Leading Seaman Myran Sands received a warm return to the Royal Bahamas Defence Force after successfully completing his journey from the College of The Bahamas and earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Spanish with a Minor in French.
The 17-year veteran was welcomed by Captain Tellis A. Bethel, Commander Defence Force (Acting), after graduating with credit. In a diverse culture where being proficient in a foreign language is an asset, Sands hopes to enhance this experience in his workplace. In addition to learning both languages, Sands also holds a Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) Level 2 certification in Chinese Mandarin, which is an international proficiency exam.
Captain Bethel stated that the Defence Force is currently planning the introduction of a Linguistic Unit to assist with training and utilization of linguistic skills among members of the Defence Force. "It's a concept previously introduced to the Defence Force by the first Bahamian Commander Defence Force, Commodore Leon Smith, but was later discontinued."
The four year linguistic journey for Leading Seaman Sands began in September 2012 when he enrolled in the Spanish program at the College. He describes his studies as being a challenge at first, but as a Marine, he adapted to his temporary habitat and excelled.
In September 2013, he was the only male out of 6 participants to be awarded a scholarship by Banco Santander to represent The Bahamas while studying Spanish at La Universidad International in Cuernavaca, Mexico.
“My arrival in Mexico was an indicator that I needed to learn and fast,” says Sands. “I was housed by an elderly couple who were referred to as Mama and Papa. They possessed no knowledge of English, and it was here I developed a strong appreciation for The Spanish culture. I am hoping to utilize my skills in the day to day operations of the Force in whatever way possible.”
Since returning, Sands has already assisted the Defence Force with his language skills. He joined the Defence Force as a member of New Entry 34 in 1999. Currently attached to Force’s Supply department, he has one daughter, Macara Sands.
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