The Legion of Honour, established by Napoleon Bonaparte on May 19, 1802, stands as France’s most prestigious award for both military and civil accomplishments. This order, which succeeded the terminated Orders of the Royal Family following a decree in 1791, recognizes acts of valor and service. Recipients of this honor join the Order of Merit, which is comparable to the British Commonwealth’s Knighthood.
The Legion is structured into five distinct ranks: Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer, and Knight. Among its few global recipients, three courageous Fijian soldiers were awarded the Knight class, an equivalent to the Victoria Cross in the British Commonwealth. One notable recipient was the late Private James Sukera from Wailailai, Ovalau.
Pte Sukera, who joined the Fiji military in the mid-1980s, is remembered for his bravery on August 12, 1986, during a conflict in Lebanon. On that day, three seriously injured French soldiers were being evacuated when their ambulance was ambushed by armed factions. These groups sought to capture or harm the French soldiers following the recent killing of local leaders.
Witnessing the perilous situation, Pte Sukera, alongside his comrades Corporal Maciu Davobalavu and Private Luke Vukivuki, bravely intervened. Sukera dashed out from his position to rescue one wounded French soldier, while Cpl Davobalavu provided cover fire to protect their evacuation efforts. Their steadfast resolve not only thwarted the attackers but also ensured the safe rescue of the injured.
Pte Sukera passed away on November 28, 2024, but his legacy remains significant, especially within his community in Levuka. His heroic actions, along with those of his fellow soldiers, underscore the extraordinary courage and dedication of Fijian warriors in challenging circumstances.
The recognition of such valor serves to inspire future generations about the importance of bravery and selflessness in defending others, making their contributions invaluable in the history of military service and international solidarity.
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