On Friday, March 27, the Cayman Islands Regiment (CIR) gathered at Owen Roberts International Airport for a final, surprise farewell to outgoing Commanding Officer Colonel Roger Carter and his wife as they began their journey home to Trinidad and Tobago.
The airport send-off followed an official handover ceremony held on Thursday, March 26, at Government House. During the event, hosted by Her Excellency the Governor Jane Owen, Col. Carter formally transferred leadership of the Regiment to his successor, the newly promoted Lieutenant Colonel Graham Muir.
In a significant moment during the ceremony, Governor Owen restored Col. Carter to his substantive rank of Colonel. Col. Carter had originally accepted the lower rank of Lieutenant Colonel to lead the CIR three years ago.
“During his time leading the Cayman Islands Regiment, Col. Carter forged vital pathways and created lasting partnerships with key organisations including the RCIPS, HMCI, CICG, HMCIPS, and many others,” said H.E. Governor Jane Owen. “He empowered his staff and established a standard of operation that will serve Lt. Col. Muir and the entire Regiment as they continue to grow.”
Reflecting on his tenure, Col. Carter expressed his gratitude to the personnel he led. “I was fortunate to work with an incredible team. I am confident that the progress we have made over the past three years will continue under Lt. Col. Muir’s leadership. Having observed his work and his rapport with the team, I know he is the right person to take the reins.”
Upon accepting his promotion and the command of the Regiment, Lt. Col. Muir thanked his predecessor for his mentorship. “It is my distinct privilege to build on the work of Col. Carter alongside an exceptional team and equally outstanding partner agencies. Together, we will strengthen the foundation laid over the past three years and continue developing a more capable, integrated Regiment in service of the Cayman Islands, with the next exciting step a recruiting drive starting this weekend.”
The official transition follows a private Change of Command Ceremony held by the CIR on Saturday 14 March at the UCCI Pavilion. Today’s surprise gathering at the airport serves as a final testament to the deep respect and gratitude the Regiment holds for Col. Carter’s service.
The Cayman Islands Regiment wishes Colonel Carter and his wife the very best in their future endeavors.