23 personnel leave for UN Guard Force in Iraq
Republic of Fiji Military Forces Private Temalesi Gucake leaves the country for her first tour of duty for the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq. Fiji provides the guard force for the mission, with troops protecting
I used to admire the RFMF brass band when I was growing up that is why I have joined the force.” Private Eleni Naleba RFMF personnel
United Nations facilities and staff.
For the 22-year-old from Tubou, Lakeba in Lau, joining the force was about maintaining a disciplined lifestyle.
She was one of the 23 personnel at Nadi International Airport to fly off for the one-year mission. Private Gucake is excited because she knows she will learn a lot more about discipline.
“I want to work hard and do my best so that I can assist my family back home,” she said. “Joining the force was merely a motivation by their disciplined lifestyle. This is something that can be practised inside the force and even at home too.”
For Private Eleni Naleba, her decision to become a soldier was her admiration of the RFMF Band. “I used to admire the RFMF brass band when I was growing up that is why I have joined the force,” the 22-year-old said.
Private Naleba is from Nailuva, Saivou in Ra.
She completed her Year 12 education and was drafted into the National Youth Band in Valelevu. She learnt to play many of the musical instruments she grew up wishing to play however she prefers the E-flat horn, also known as the Tenor horn.
“I will work hard on my first tour of duty (TOD). I do not regret this career. There are a lot of challenges but I believe I can overcome them.”
Meanwhile, Fiji Corrections Service officer Class C, Jone Dranibaka was happy that he was given the nod to be part of the mission.
“I did not expect this to happen, to actually be part of the peacekeeping operations,” the man from Naividamu, Macuata said. “There were some stringent measures that had to be followed which I took seriously in order to be part of this TOD. I am looking forward to it.”
Police Corporal Remesio Waqavanua of the Fiji Police Force who is also part of the mission said: “I have been part of the Fiji Police Force for the last 25 years and this is my first tour of duty. I am looking forward to gain more in this discipline.”
RFMF Peacekeeping Support Operations director and military adviser Lieutenant-Colonel Pacolo Luveni told the personnel not to compromise their duty.
“The sacrifice we do for our nation it is the same sacrifice undertaken by your families. Inform your loved ones at home very well, so that we all can carry your responsibility.” Meanwhile, 26 personnel are expected to arrive today from Iraq after serving their term.
Edited by Ranoba Baoa