History
The SKNDF was originally formed as a volunteer unit in 1896 in response to riots in several sugar plantations. The regular defence force did not come into being however until 1967, when it was decided that a regular army was needed following public disturbances on the island of Anguilla, which was attempting to secede from its federation with Saint Kitts and Nevis, and the determination that the existing volunteer force was not adequately trained to deal with the situation.
The first Defence's manpower came from the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force's Tactical Unit and the Special Service Unit.
The forming of the regular defence force was a major policy of the ruling Labour Party, and was adamantly opposed by the opposition People's Action Movement (PAM). Thus, when the PAM came to power in 1980, they made the decision to disband the regular force, leaving only the reserve. However, the election of Denzil Douglas in 1997 saw the new government reform the regulars.
Read more about this topic: Saint Kitts And Nevis Defence Force
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