Lavenia Volaukitoga, 62, has dedicated the past 30 years to honoring the memory of her late husband, a soldier who lost his life during peacekeeping missions in Lebanon. On Remembrance Day, she was accompanied by her granddaughter at the National War Memorial Grounds in Suva, Fiji, reflecting on their family’s sacrifices and the legacy of courage.
Her husband was tragically killed on June 4, 1994, when he was shot down by Hezbollah. Despite the heartbreak, Ms. Volaukitoga found strength through her faith, stating, “No matter how painful it was, I chose God,” which helped her raise their five children in Bua without financial support from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces. She became a market vendor in a bid to sustain her family, but the struggle was immense.
In 2006, a turning point came when she received a call to work as a cleaner at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks, a job she held until 2016. Now retired, she finds joy in caring for her grandchildren, one of whom, Wakesa Raiwa, expressed pride in her grandfather’s legacy and a hope of one day becoming President.
Another attendee, Susana Veretawatini, 59, continued the tradition of remembrance after losing her husband, Corporal Lui Veretawatini, in 2008. Traveling from Naisomua to honor his memory has been vital for her, as she reminisces about their life together and the family they built.
Both women’s stories reflect resilience and hope amidst loss, demonstrating the enduring strength of love and family ties, as well as the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by soldiers for their country.
This article serves as a poignant reminder of the significant impact that war can have on families, and highlights how remembrance can foster healing and unity in the community. Their stories exemplify not only personal courage but also the collective strength found in shared memories and aspirations for a better future.
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