One hundred and three recruits; 60 males and 43 females have passed out of the Basic and Leadership Training School at the Eastern Naval Command in Tema. Brigadier General John Kweku Fokuo, Director General, Plans and Development of the Ghana Armed Forces, who reviewed the parade, said "our pride as military personnel lies in safeguarding the constitution and our developing democracy". He stated that, the military was a calling of sacrifice and dedication geared towards the stability and development of the country. The military service now had the trust and confidence of the citizenry through a healthy civil-military relationship, he said. Brig-Gen Fokuo advised the personnel to build upon the discipline instilled in them during their training since the military had to live above reproach to preserve the noble traditions and good name of the Ghana Armed Forces. The Reviewing Officer cautioned them against any negative behaviour, including unsolicited police duties, land guard activities and evicting tenants, among other things. Instead, he urged them “to display utmost discipline, honesty and patriotism in the discharge of your duties". Brig-Gen Fokuo indicated that, the Ghana Navy had introduced a new concept; 'Equipment User-Maintainer System' as their response to technological advancement. He explained that the aim of the concept was to train personnel not only in the use of specific equipment, but also, in their maintenance and repairs. After the 27-week military training the Ordinary Seamen are to under-go additional three-month sea training. The Best All-Round Recruit Award went to Abankwa Sam Yeboah while Dorcas Ankoma Ofori received the Best Female Recruit Award. Emmauel Kofi Nti, Benjamin Forson Anokye, and Alex Kwame Barnie Miah took the best in Weapon, Academics and Drill Awards respectively. Source: GNA