UK’s Sandhurst Celebrates Milestone Ties with Bahrain as First Graduate Honoured

UK’s Sandhurst Celebrates Milestone Ties with Bahrain as First Graduate Honoured

The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) in the United Kingdom has marked seven decades of deep-rooted partnership with the Kingdom of Bahrain by officially honouring Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, recognizing his historic achievement as the very first Bahraini national to graduate from the prestigious academy after joining in 1957.

Key Highlights of the Ceremony and Historical Ties

Special Presentation: During the ceremony, the Commandant of RMAS, Major General Nick Cowley, honoured Shaikh Mohammed by presenting him with the academy's official sword and a commemorative medal in recognition of his outstanding service and instrumental role in strengthening bilateral ties.

Origins of the Relationship: Major General Cowley highlighted that the historic relationship between the academy and Bahrain actually dates back 90 years, originating in 1936 during an official UK visit by the late Shaikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, then Ruler of Bahrain and its Dependencies.

Generational Legacy: This initial visit paved the way more than two decades later for Shaikh Mohammed to enter the academy. His pioneering path was later followed by his family members, including his sons Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa and Shaikh Talal bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, who graduated in 1992 and 1994 respectively, as well as his grandson in the current graduating cohort.

 Milestone Recognition: Expressing his deep pride, Shaikh Mohammed noted that the honour reflects the enduring friendship between Bahrain and RMAS, nurtured under the continuous support of His Majesty King Hamad, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. Major General Cowley further noted that over the past seven decades, Bahrain has proudly remained the academy's largest source of international officer cadets.