Prime Minister Mark Phillips yesterday said that the two Guyana Defence Force (GDF) personnel who survived the helicopter crash at Arau, Region Seven are both recuperating.
In providing an update on the helicopter crash during the 69th sitting of the National Assembly yesterday, the Prime Minister said Corporal Dwayne Jackson sustained a broken right limb and second-degree burns.
“While these findings are not life threatening, Corporal Jackson is undergoing treatment including dressing, antibiotic and pain relief,” Phillips, also a retired Brigadier told the National Assembly.
In relation to, Lieutenant Andio Crawford, the Prime Minister said while he did not sustain any serious injuries, he is receiving “appropriate” treatment as both survivors remain hospitalized.
“Lieutenant Crawford can walk and move unaided. He is receiving appropriate treatment…he is in good spirits, Lieutenant Crawford is accompanied by relatives during this time,” he further noted.
According to Prime Minister Phillips, the army men are in “good spirits, fully conscious, oriented and coherent.”
“We are thankful that despite the adverse conditions and against the odds, they were able to return home with their families. Their commitment to duty, to our nation, will not go unnoticed,” he said.
The two survivors were among a crew of seven soldiers who departed Base Camp Ayanganna for Arau at 09:23 hours last Wednesday.
Brigadier (Rtd) Gary Beaton, Colonel Michael Shahoud, Lieutenant Colonel Mike Charles, Lieutenant Colonel, Sean Welcome and Sergeant Jason Khan died in the crash.
