SOLDIER GUARDS PAPERS OF FREEDOM
Retired military man recalls taking part in independence day ceremony 50 years ago
It was a fine morning 50 years ago, when retired military officer Leveni Kamakorewa stood on attention with his white and red uniform guarding the perimeter where Prince Charles handed over the instruments of our country’s Independence.
Mr Kamakorewa said memories of the day were fresh in his mind and he was proud to be part of a historical event where Fiji gained its independence after being a British colony for 96 years.
He recalled that the event had happened just a few months after his passing-out from Basic Recruitment Training.
“We had just finished our basic recruitment with what was then the Royal Fiji Military Forces. If I remember correctly it was around August or September 1970,” Mr Kamakorewa said.
“I was part of the last batch of recruitment undertaken by the Royal Fiji Military Forces when Fiji was still a colony,” he said.
“Straight after passing-out from basic recruitment training, we were told to take part during the Independence Day Parade at Albert Park.
“We rehearsed under very strict guidance by our Commanding Officer back then, who was Colonel George Mate.”
He said it was also the last time the Queen’s Colour had to be paraded. “The ground was fully packed by people of all races who came to witness the event. Everyone was jovial trying to get a glimpse of the prince.”
He said he was only 20 years old when the event took place.
“I could vividly remember the anticipation that we had on that morning. We knew a Prince was coming from the royal family and for us we were very much waiting to be part of the parade and guards on the ground,” he said.
“I was not really matured enough at that time to fully understand the significance of what was happening.
“All we were looking forward to was to take part in the parade and then party afterwards.
“Then when I sit down now and reflect, I could say that it was really something important that we were fortunate to be part of 50 years ago.” Mr Kamakorewa served 33 years with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces before retiring as a Warrant Officer Class 1.
I could vividly remember the anticipation that we had on that morning.We knew a Prince was coming from the royal family and for us we were very much waiting to be part of the parade and guards on the ground.
Leveni Kamakorewa Retired military officer