[UPDATED] New CDS to be promoted to Commodore

GOVERNMENT intends to promote Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Captain Don Polo to the rank of Commodore, according to both senior military and state sources.

Polo, the former commanding officer of the Coast Guard, was appointed as head of the Defence Force on October 7, after the President was advised to revoke the CDS appointment of Vice Air Marshal Darryl Daniel.

Military sources on October 8 said it was unusual for an officer at the rank of captain to take the helm as head of the Defence Force.

Newsday understands “owing to the exigencies,” the government, through the Minister of Defence, advised the President to appoint Polo and that instrument was handed over at 8 pm on October 7.

One government source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “We are aware of what is required and have taken steps to have Captain Polo promoted to the rank of Commodore in the shortest possible time.”

In a statement on October 9, the Defence Force welcomed its new CDS following the change in leadership in what it described as “a new chapter in the organisation’s continued evolution and commitment to national defence and security.”

In a statement, Polo has been described as having 32 years “dedicated experience,” and brings with him a “wealth of experience and operational expertise.”

The statement also said Daniel’s tenure ended after 37 years “of distinguished service.”

He was appointed CDS in March 2019 and received two terms of extension by the former PNM administration after reaching retirement age.

“The TT Defence Force extends its heartfelt gratitude to Air Vice Marshal Daniel for his unwavering dedication, leadership and invaluable contribution to the security framework of the nation.

His decades of service exemplify professionalism, loyalty, and steadfast commitment to the people of Trinidad and Tobago,” the statement said.

This story was originally published with the headline Defence Force welcomes new chief of staff and has been updated to include additional details. See original post below.

The Defence Force has welcomed its new Chief of Defence Staff Captain Don Polo following the change in leadership of the organisation in what it described as "a new chapter in the organization’s continued evolution and commitment to national defence and security."

In a statement, Polo, the former commanding officer of the Coast Guard, has been described as having 32 years "dedicated experience," and bring with him a "wealth of experience and operational expertise to the role."

On October 7, President Christine Kangaloo, acting on the advice of Minister of Defence Wayne Sturge, revoked the appointment of former CDS Air Vice Marshal Darryl Daniel and appointed Polo.

The change in the military top seat took place around 8 pm and only became public on the morning of October 8.

The statement said Daniel tenure ended after 37 years "of distinguished service."

He was appointed to the position in March 2019 and received two terms of extension by the former PNM administration after reaching retirement age.

"The Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force extends its heartfelt gratitude to Air Vice Marshal Daniel for his unwavering dedication, leadership, and invaluable contribution to the security framework of the nation. His decades of service exemplify professionalism, loyalty, and steadfast commitment to the people of Trinidad and Tobago," the statement said.

The organisation says it remains steadfast in its mandate to protect and defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Trinidad and Tobago, while continuing to support the Government and people in the pursuit of peace, stability, and national development.