By Celestine Chacon
November 28, 2024
The Eteringbang Airstrip in Region Seven has been renamed the Brigadier Gary Beaton Aerodrome in memory of the late Guyana Defence Force (GDF) officer who tragically passed away in 2023.
The announcement was made during a dedication ceremony led by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali.
The airstrip, which serves a critical border area, underwent a $688.8 million rehabilitation to restore its functionality.
Previously in disrepair, the upgraded facility now provides improved transportation, connectivity, and emergency response capabilities to the hinterland region.
The late Brigadier Beaton played a pivotal role in planning and initiating the project, particularly during a period of heightened national security concerns.
President Ali highlighted Beaton’s commitment and leadership as instrumental in executing the rehabilitation.
He also commended the GDF and other stakeholders for their contributions to the project’s successful completion.
Further enhancements to the aerodrome were announced, including the construction of a 400-foot by 250-foot multi-purpose tarmac.
This addition will accommodate aircraft parking, military parades, and community activities, creating employment opportunities for residents through a locally driven implementation process managed by the Ministry of Public Works.
The renaming of the airstrip stands as a lasting tribute to Brigadier Beaton’s dedication to Guyana’s security and development, ensuring his legacy lives on in one of the country’s most strategically significant regions.