The Legion of Honour, the most prestigious French award for military and civilian achievements, was established by Napoleon Bonaparte on May 19, 1802. It was designed to honor acts of bravery, valor, and service, essentially replacing the previous royal orders that were abolished in 1791. This distinguished order is organized into five classes: Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer, and Knight. Notably, it includes the Knight class, which parallels the Victoria Cross of the British Commonwealth.
A remarkable instance of courage recognized by the Legion of Honour involved three Fijian soldiers, including the late Private James Sukera from Ovalau. His commendable actions on August 12, 1986, are testament to the valor that gained him this honor.
On that day, as armed groups attacked, an ambulance transporting severely injured French soldiers was ambushed. Pte Sukera, along with Corporal Maciu Davobalavu and Private Luke Vukivuki, sprung into action to rescue a wounded soldier under heavy fire. Despite the chaos, their coordinated efforts successfully thwarted the attack, allowing for the safe recovery of the injured men.
Pte Sukera’s life, which was sadly cut short in late 2024, is memorialized through the stories shared by friends, such as Kulitapa Powell, who emphasized Sukera’s enduring legacy in Levuka. The heroism displayed not only reflects the strength of Fijian warriors but also exemplifies the global spirit of unity and courage in times of crisis.
The bravery demonstrated by Sukera and his comrades serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating the profound impact that individual acts of valor can have on the world. Their sacrifices remind us of the importance of courage and the willingness to protect others, reinforcing the values inherent in the Legion of Honour.
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