After enduring the loss of her husband for three decades, Lavenia Volaukitoga, 62, continuously honors the memory of fallen soldiers each Remembrance Day. Accompanied by her granddaughter, she paid her respects at the National War Memorial Grounds in Veiuto, Suva, yesterday.
Ms. Volaukitoga’s husband was killed on June 4, 1994, when he was shot down by Hezbollah while serving on peacekeeping duties in Lebanon. Reflecting on her journey, she attributed her resilience in the face of such profound loss to her faith in God. “No matter how painful it was, I chose God and through that, I was composed and managed enough courage to take care of our children alone,” she reflected.
For ten years, she supported her five children in Bua without any compensation from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), selling goods in the market, though it proved insufficient to meet the family’s needs. “That’s the reason why my children didn’t make it in life, because there was no regular income to support us financially,” she explained.
It was not until 2006 that she received a position as a cleaner at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks office in Suva, a job she held until 2016. Now, she dedicates her time to caring for her grandchildren, including her eldest, Wakesa Raiwa, who is preparing to take her Fiji School Leaving Certificate Examination.
Wakesa, 19, expressed her admiration for her grandfather’s sacrifices. “I may not have seen my grandfather, but I know he was a great man, giving his all to protect my family and our nation,” she shared, while also sharing her ambitious dream of becoming President one day, with the strong support of her family behind her.
Also attending the event was Susana Veretawatini, 59, who has made the journey from Naisomua, Vugalei, Tailevu, every year since her husband, Corporal Lui Veretawatini, was killed in Sinai in 2008. “I have been attending every year to reminisce on all the memories I had with him and our family,” she tearfully expressed. Despite facing challenges, Ms. Veretawatini stated that her journey through hardship has led her to a life filled with peace and gratitude.
These stories highlight the enduring impact of loss and resilience within families, showcasing how love and support can help individuals cope with grief while honoring their legacies. The commitment of families like Ms. Volaukitoga’s and Ms. Veretawatini’s to remember their loved ones is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for peace and the strength found in community and family ties.
Overall, these tributes serve to inspire a sense of unity and remembrance, encouraging future generations to uphold the values of service and strength as they pursue their dreams.
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