Special Force Command passes out 321 trained in VVIP protection

A total of 321 military personnel from the Special Force Command (SFC) have graduated after successfully completing tier II course of intake 3 of the year 2023/24 at the Very Very Important Persons’ Training School (VVIPTS) Sera Kasenyi located in Entebbe.

Col John Bosco Asinguza who also doubles as Commander of First Special Force Group (SFG) and represented the Commander SFC, Maj Gen. David Mugisha while speaking to the graduands before they passed out on Friday, July 19.

 "What really defines you as an exceptional individual is your sense of duty, honor, patriotism and selflessness. You have chosen a path that requires sacrifice, courage, willingness to work and putting others and Uganda before self,” he said. 

Major Jimmy Omara, the SFC spokesperson in a media statement noted that Col Asinguza reiterated that in a world where threats and dangers are ever present, training and preparation equip troops with the necessary tools and knowledge to face any challenge ahead was necessary.  

He added that the course provided insights, quick assessment of situations, respond with precision and effectiveness with the ability to remain calm and work under pressure, adapting to changing circumstances and making micro-second decisions.

"This sets them apart as elite defenders of this great nation," said Omara.

He emphasized the need for continuous training in trying to achieve tactical proficiency, keeping fit, disciplined, and above all, keeping ideologically motivated.

He said the willingness to stand between danger and those that you protect is a testament to your character and integrity.

The Commander 1 SFG also informed the graduating group that as they embark on this noble and challenging journey, they should remember that with great power comes great responsibility that should not be misused but rather get interested with the lives and wellbeing of those under their protection, adding that that duty must be carried out with the utmost care, professionalism and integrity.

He has no doubt each one of them will rise to the occasion, upholding the highest level of excellence as required by Special Forces Command.

 The Commander 2 Special Forces Group, Col Wilson Bagonza observed that during the various demonstration, the group showed that the objectives of the course have been achieved.

He thanked the Commander SFC, Maj Gen Mugisha for his continuous guidance and mentoring that has enabled them to take training even up to unit levels.

He asked the graduands to avoid subversive tendencies and other vices that could easily destroy their lives.

He called on them to promote patriotism and excellence.

The Director of Operations SFC, Col Paul Namawa congratulated the group for reaching this height after successful completion of the course.

He thanked the instructor core who have been working with the different groups to produce quality operators.

He cautioned them to tame their ambitions, be vigilant, and uphold the highest level of values and above all staying ahead of negative forces.

The Director of Training SFC, Lt Col Phillip Mugizi said the leadership of SFC came up with a decision to hold a joint pass-out ceremony for both the trainees who have undergone tier II training programme; 143 operators from SFC Fort Samora Marcel Training School (FSMTS) in Kaweweta and 178 from VVIPTS Sera Kasenyi together at Kasenyi, making a total of 321 operators.

He said Tier II course is an induction course meant to prepare new militants joining SFC and who are going to join the various elite special battalions in order to introduce to them the basic unit tactics.

He confirmed that the soldiers have been well-tested in the basic understanding and application of tactics.

He congratulated the graduands for the successful completion of this course and wished them success in their future tasks.

The Commandant of VVIPTS Sera Kasenyi, Lt Col Frank Mulema, said the course opened on August 27, 2023, and was aimed at equipping training with VVIP protection knowledge, skills at Arms, political Education, close quota combat, communication, public health and martial arts.

He said the course was designed to provide the trainees with a comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities associated with VIP protection and equipping them with skills. The course run for a period of 28 weeks with both theories and practical. He thanked CSFC, Commander 1SFG, for their love, and passion for training.

In the same vein, he applauds the administration of SFC for supporting every aspect of training but most especially the Directorate of Training for its guidance.

The passout was attended by the Commander 2 SFG, Director of Operations, Director of Intelligence, Col Strategies from the Uganda Peoples Defence Forces joint headquarters, all Directors of SFC, Commanding Officers, Commandants, Members of Command and Staff of SFC.