Lavenia Volaukitoga, a 62-year-old widow, has dedicated the past 30 years to honoring the memory of her late husband, a soldier who lost his life while serving during a peacekeeping mission in Lebanon. Yesterday, she attended Remembrance Day services at the National War Memorial Grounds in Veiuto, Suva, accompanied by her granddaughter.
Ms. Volaukitoga’s husband was tragically killed on June 4, 1994, by Hezbollah insurgents while he was on duty. Despite her profound grief, she has shown incredible resilience, attributing her strength to her faith in God. “No matter how painful it was, I chose God and through that, I found courage to care for our children alone,” she shared.
Raising five children alone in Bua without support from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) was a significant challenge. To make ends meet, she worked as a market vendor, struggling to provide for her family. It wasn’t until 2006 that she secured a job with the RFMF as a cleaner, a position she held until 2016. Now, she focuses on taking care of her grandchildren, with the eldest set to sit for her first Fiji School Leaving Certificate examination shortly.
Her granddaughter, 19-year-old Wakesa Raiwa, expressed her feelings about her grandfather’s legacy. Although she never met him, she felt a deep connection to his memory. Wakesa dreams of becoming the President one day, highlighting the supportive environment her grandmother has fostered for her family.
Another attendee, Susana Veretawatini, reminisced about her husband, Corporal Lui Veretawatini, who was killed in 2008 while serving in Sinai. This year marked another solemn trip to honor him and to reflect on the love they shared. Despite the challenges, she finds peace and gratitude in her life, showcasing the strength of the human spirit even in the face of hardship.
The stories shared by both women underscore the enduring impact of service members’ sacrifices and the vital importance of remembrance in stitching familial bonds and community resilience. These moments of reflection not only honor those who have passed but also inspire future generations to cherish their legacy.
This article emphasizes the power of remembrance and the strength found in community and family connections. It reinforces the importance of honoring service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice, while also offering a hopeful perspective on how their legacies can continue to inspire and uplift their loved ones.
Leave a comment