Ba, Nadi, Lautoka and Sigatoka all today joined other towns and cities around the country to remember the heroes of Fiji who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.
In Lautoka, ex – servicemen, widows, wives children and current military and police personnel joined in the celebrations which were held at the Fiji Ex- Servicemen’s Office along Tavewa Road.
Chief Guest at the commemoration in Lautoka, the Ministry of Sugar permanent secretary Lieutenant Colonel Manasa Vaniqi reminded those gathered that Remembrance Day is one of the most important days in the calendar of the military around the world and now has seen many countries placing a special day to remember the heroes of war.
“This is an important day as it brings people of many different backgrounds to remember our fathers, sons, brothers, husbands and friends to remember the ultimate sacrifice they gave for us,” he said.
“It is also an opportunity to renew relations among the ex – servicemen who are still among us and a time to sit and look back at how their sacrifice has made our today a better place.”
This year, Remembrance Day has been a special one as it coincides with the commemoration of World War I which was fought in Europe starting in 1914.
“Many of our grandfathers and fathers fought in WW II and currently our fathers, sons, daughters, and friends are still serving as peacekeepers in volatile regions of the world. They are always in our prayers and hearts.”
Following the commemoration ceremony, the ex – servicemen and women were served refreshments and had a talanoa session with current soldiers to discuss some of the issues relating to ex- servicemen.
“The day also includes stories by many of whom had served in wars and on peacekeeping duties and the challenges they faced and how they overcame them these stories inspires a nation and provides us with that Blessing to carry out peacekeeping around the world to continue the legacy which they have left behind,” Lt. Col Vaniqi said.