The Republic of Fiji Military Forces paid respect and celebrated the lives of fallen soldiers during their Infantry Day celebrations this morning.
This special day is set aside by the nations to celebrate and remember the lives of those gallant soldiers who passed away during battle.
During the Infantry Day parade at military barracks in Suva, Lautoka, Nadi and Labasa, soldiers were reminded of their duty not only to the military but the nation as a whole.
As servicemen, they were told that service came before self.
Commanding officer of Fiji’s 3rd Infantry Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Jone Kalouniwai said that Infantry day was very important to all soldiers.
“You have to be an infantry man to know what it means to us. This day is very special, especially because we salute all those fallen soldiers who are not with us,” he said.
“These are for all soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the good cause of peace.”
The celebration started with a parade where soldiers were reminded of their service towards their fellowmen, families, neighbours and the country as a whole in trying to bring together people of all races to live in peace and harmony.
Lt. Col Kalouniwai said the day was an important event in the military calendar.
Infantry Day starts with a parade, then soldiers go around towns and cities cleaning them before they meet up to enjoy the rest of the day playing different sports.
“This year we in Suva will clean the Colonial War Memorial Hospital and look at how we can clean whatever the hospital wants us to clean,” Lt. Col Kalouniwai said.
Infantry Day is celebrated annually on June 23.
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