THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force is mourning the death of Marine Seaman Anfernee Brett Neely who died yesterday from injuries sustained during a boating accident in Nassau Harbour while on duty on September 17.

Captain Tellis Bethel, the RBDF’s acting commander, said that Neely enlisted in the agency on January 10. The 20-year-old was among 108 marines undergoing recruit training at the same time.

“Marine Seaman Neely was a ‘giant at heart’ who grew to love his job,” Capt Bethel said in a statement. “Upon successfully completing recruit training, Anfernee was subsequently drafted to the Defence Force’s Harbour Patrol Unit. The unit is responsible for conducting marine patrols around Nassau Harbour, Paradise Island and the northern shores of New Providence. As a member of the unit, Anfernee was a part of a team that was also responsible for providing marine security for cruise ships that brought millions of passengers to New Providence.

“Looking forward to a promising future, Marine Seaman Neely proudly took on the honourable task of guarding our heritage as he performed his duties with diligence, dignity and much enthusiasm. We are therefore truly grateful for his service to the defence force and our nation.”

He expressed condolences to the marine’s family and loved ones.

“It is my sincerest hope that Anfernee’s short-lived, yet full life would serve as an inspiration to those of us who knew him,” Capt Bethel said.