President and Commander in Chief of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, His Excellency Ratu Wiliame Katonivere made his inaugural visit to the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force’s Camp Ziouani at the Golan Heights in Israel on Friday 5th August.
In a first-ever for the RFMF, an all-female color party led by Lieutenant Salote Caginidaveta carried the colors of the 1st Infantry Regiment based at the UNDOF's Camp Ziouani, Golan Heights.
A 100 man Guard of Honour was also reviewed by the Head of State who was later briefed by a team from UNDOF HQ led by the Deputy Force Commander Brigadier General Anita Asmah.
This was followed by a traditional ceremony of welcome by the men and women of the Fijian Battalion in the Golan Heights welcoming their Commander in Chief to their camp and the Middle East.
While addressing the troops President Katonivere expressed his delight in meeting the men and women and thanked them for the important duty they carry out on behalf of UNDOF and Fiji.
“We are proud of you and the work that you do. You have put the name of our country on the world map with the work you are doing here in the Golan Heights.”
“I am glad that you are all well and I thank the UNDOF for looking after you.”
President Katonivere further stressed the importance of maintaining the good records set over the years by those that have served before them and the impact of their work on the Fijian economy.
“When you serve here in the Middle East, you must have the vision to develop individually and ensure that your families back in Fiji also.”
“Many of you here are children of soldiers who have served in the Middle East the result of which are good homes and education for their children and I encourage you all to follow their footsteps and secure good futures for your families.”