Yesterday, the Minister of National Security, the Hon. Michael Weeks, JP, MP, visited Warwick Camp to meet with senior officials from the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), who are in Bermuda to observe and engage with their Regiment, which is currently undergoing training.
Minister Weeks, joined by Acting Permanent Secretary Tarita Cartwright, welcomed Mr Tito Lightbourne, Permanent Secretary of National Security for the TCI, and Lieutenant Colonel Ennis Grant, Commanding Officer of the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment.
Their visit coincides with the second and final week of an intensive two-week training camp conducted by the Royal Bermuda Regiment for the TCI Regiment.
The deployment marks a continued partnership between Bermuda and the Turks and Caicos Islands—two British Overseas Territories committed to strengthening regional security, disaster response, and defence cooperation.
After the visit, Minister Weeks said: “It was an absolute pleasure to meet with our brothers and sisters from the Turks and Caicos islands. There is something special about seeing our two territories working together as island territories and as an extended family.
“We share a common history, we face similar challenges, and we have always looked out for each other when it counts.”
“I want to commend the leadership of the TCI Regiment and all the young Marines here training hard. What they are doing is more than drills and discipline. It is about building something for the future.
“They are gaining skills that will protect lives, support communities, and serve their country with pride.”
The Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment was established in 2020 to respond to national and regional emergencies, including disaster relief and border protection.
As a newer unit, the Regiment has turned to the Royal Bermuda Regiment for its experienced guidance and professional instruction to help develop its capacity and operational readiness.
Minister Weeks concluded, “As a fellow islander and former conscript myself, I know how transformative this kind of experience can be.
“I wish these young men and women all the best as they finish this training phase, and I hope they carry a little bit of Bermuda with them when they go.”