Major Nagauna, Captain Vakadewabuka to lead Respective Companies
The Third Battalion Fiji Infantry Regiment (3FIR) conducted a change of command parade within its Companies at the 3FIR drill square at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks on Monday.
The changes included Major Atonio Nagauna, a recent graduate of Command and Staff College in Australia.
He will be the new commanding officer of Alpha Company (deployable Company).
Captain Venina Vakadewabuka will be new commanding officer Bravo Company. Major Asaeli Toanikeve will assume the Command of PSD Company.
Whilst handing over the swagger canes to the senior officers, Commanding-Officer 3FIR Lieutenant-Colonel Aseri Rokoura charged them with the responsibility of Command in their respective Companies.
He stated that Leadership is service and the quality of leadership is imperative to motivate and drive their troops accordingly.
Lieutenant-Colonel Rokoura stated that trusting the troops was important as it builds confidence and empowers individuals to go beyond the limits.
Lieutenant-Colonel Rokoura also reminded the troops that it was their duty to respect and adhere to the command and leadership of their Commanding officer.
The 3FIR has been engaged with security and support operations as well as HADR operations during the festive season until now.
Personnel of the 3FIR has been deployed to Kadavu, Lau and Vanua Levu following Cyclone Sarai and Tino and recently to Australia for bushfire recovery work.
For 2020, the 3FIR will be engaged with national security duties, deployable operations, defence partners cross-training and exercises as well as Regimental and Ceremonial duties. With this, Lieutenant-Colonel Rokoura highlighted that it will require and demand commitment and effective leadership at all levels to fulfil these tasks.
Lastly, the troops were also reminded to value family whilst carrying out their duties.