Troops reminded of safety
Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and National Disaster Management and Meteorological Services Permanent Secretary Meleti Bainimarama reminded RFMF personnel not to compromise safety and discipline when on tour of duty.
“You cannot and must not compromise on safety,” Mr Bainimarama said. “Always be on your guard, discipline will help you do this.
“The military discipline instilled in you will not only ensure cohesion among your battalion but more importantly will ensure you and your comrades’ safety.”
He made these statements while addressing a 170-member contingent from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) bound for Sinai later this month.
The contingent has been undergoing preembarkation training at the RFMF peacekeeping training headquarters at Blackrock, in Nadi, in the past few weeks. The troops bound for Sinai will be divided in to six chalks, with the first chalk expected to leave Fiji for Sinai on April 24 to join the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO).
“This same discipline has allowed the Fijian contingent to enjoy a distinguished record in participating in and winning many of the inter-contingent sporting competitions,” Mr Bainimarama said.
“And we are acknowledged as a predominant competitor with a proud history in the biannual Force Skill at Arms competition.”
In addition, he reminded the soldiers of the presence of terrorists in their new area of operation.
“Today you all stand as a strong battalion of 170 men and women ready to face any battle threats of terrorism that is existent and steadily growing in your new area of operation,’’ Mr Bainimarama said. “Unlike previous deployments with observer status, you will now be on alert at the South Base and you cannot and must not compromise on safety.” Members of the contingent will rest for two weeks during which they will spend time with their families before they depart for Sinai.