Dereck Jang made an emotional farewell as he departed Fiji last night, taking a moment to honor his grandparents at their grave on Reservoir Rd in Suva. The 19-year-old was filled with tears, recognizing that he would be away from home for five years after being accepted into the British Army, a prospect he never anticipated would materialize when he finished school.
Having recently completed his studies at Marist Brothers High School, Jang was initially set on a future in civil law but deemed the opportunity to serve in the British Army too significant to pass up. In a heartfelt message, he encouraged other young people to seize similar promising opportunities and wished well for his fellow applicants heading to England.
Jang expressed confidence in his training, which he believed had prepared him well for the physical challenges ahead in England. Aiming to join the Parachute Regiment, he looked forward to following in the footsteps of relatives who have served in the army. He is enthusiastic about the career ahead and the chance to represent his community.
His mother, Georgina Jang, shared her pride, mixed with bittersweet emotions, stating that while they will miss him, they are thrilled for his future. She humorously mentioned that Dereck’s departure would also mean more food at home, highlighting the family’s close-knit relationships and hopes for all seven of her sons to eventually consider joining the army.
The group that departed included several individuals who underwent individual preparations before flying together, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Jang’s life as they transitioned through Los Angeles before reaching Heathrow Airport, where they were met by British Army officials.
This opportunity reflects not only Jang’s personal aspirations but also serves as an inspiration for other young people from Fiji, showcasing the exciting possibilities that await them on the global stage.
Emphasizing hope, this story underscores the potential for young individuals to pursue their dreams and make a meaningful impact in their communities while serving in prestigious roles abroad.
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