THE BIG SALUTE
The nation is united today in remembering its brave sons who sacrificed their lives in defence of its integrity, sovereignty and achievements. We salute the heroes whose loyalty keeps the UAE flag flying high.
The President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has pledged to always remember with appreciation and gratitude “our children who sacrificed their lives in the fields of truth and duty, in defence of the nation, in preservation of its sovereignty, and in protection of its achievements”. Sheikh Khalifa said these sacrifices are “medals of pride” that will adorn “our chests and those of our children and grandchildren”. Describing the nation’s martyrs as “beacons that will illuminate all the way as we create the next 50 years” he renewed his pledge that their children and families will remain a priority and will receive the highest care support from the state.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said that UAE martyrs will remain alive and fresh in the memory and conscience of the UAE people for generations. “I salute you all on this blessed day wherein we — inspired by our noble values of loyalty and giving — commemorate our martyrs with faith and patriotism. Our martyrs showed us the true manifestations of our unity and the depth of our people’s patriotism and loyalty to our country, its leadership and decisions. Our martyrs are our noblest men who came from all over the country to serve our nation and preserve our honoured values.”
The passage of years increases the glory of UAE martyrs because they are timeless symbols of patriotism that adorn our history with glory and pride, said His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. Paying rich tribute to the nation’s martyrs, Sheikh Mohamed said they are like the stars that illuminate our present and future with the noblest values and meanings. Commemoration Day enhances the feelings of pride of the most loyal people of the UAE, both military and civilians, who have fulfilled what they pledged to God and the homeland.