UAE LEADERS PAY THEIR SOLEMN TRIBUTE TO THE NATION’S HEROES
Country’s rulers gather at Wahat Al Karama in the capital for Commemoration Day ceremony
UAE leaders paid tribute to the nation’s heroes yesterday during a ceremony at the Wahat Al Karama memorial in Abu Dhabi.
In a statement marking this year’s Commemoration Day, President Sheikh Khalifa highlighted the sacrifices men and women had made in defence of the Emirates.
Other leaders, including Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, also paid their respects.
They were joined at Wahat Al Karama yesterday by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Ruler of Ajman, Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah and Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Ruler of Umm Al Quwain.
Commemoration Day is held every year to recognise the dedication and bravery of those serving in military and civilian roles at home and abroad.
“The biography of the martyrs of the homeland, whose
processions have progressed throughout history, will remain immortal in our conscience, and the medals of honour and pride we take,” President Khalifa said.
“On this blessed day, we pay tribute to our valiant sons, soldiers, officers and commanders of our armed forces, who are vigilant in defending the homeland, and saluting our children across all workplaces inside and outside the country.” On Commemoration Day each year, schools and offices observe a minute’s silence to honour those who have lost their lives in the defence of the nation.
At the service Sheikh Mohammed thanked the Armed Forces. “It’s your wisdom, fortitude and magnanimity that enabled our valiant armed forces to continue to be the protective shield of our homeland,” he said.
“Our martyrs are the sons and grandsons of our nation’s icon and the founder of our renaissance, late Sheikh Zayed.
“They are the trustees of his vision, which states that the UAE army is our protective shield that preserves our national unity and accomplishments.”