Lavenia Volaukitoga, aged 62, has not missed a Remembrance Day in 30 years to honor the memory of her late husband, who lost his life while serving on peacekeeping duties in Lebanon. Accompanied by her granddaughter, she attended the ceremony at the National War Memorial Grounds in Veiuto, Suva, to pay tribute to fallen soldiers.
Her husband tragically died on June 4, 1994, when he was shot down by Hezbollah. Reflecting on her journey, Ms. Volaukitoga expressed that faith in God helped her endure the deep pain of loss and the challenges of raising five children alone without assistance from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF). Despite her struggles, including earning a living as a market vendor, she managed to provide for her family until a call from the RFMF offered her a cleaning position at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks, which she held until 2016.
Now, she dedicates her time to caring for her grandchildren, with pride as her eldest granddaughter prepares to take her first Fiji School Leaving Certificate examination. Wakesa Raiwa, 19, poignantly expressed her feelings about her grandfather’s sacrifices, asserting her ambition to become President one day, supported by her family’s love, particularly her grandmother’s.
Another attendee, Susana Veretawatini, shared her story of loss after her husband, Corporal Lui Veretawatini, was killed in 2008 while serving in Sinai. She travels annually to remember him, holding on to the cherished memories of their life together. While she initially hoped both her children would join the RFMF, circumstances led only her son to enlist.
The stories of both women highlight the strength and resilience found in the face of grief. Their determination to honor their loved ones and embrace life’s challenges is truly inspiring, revealing the depth of gratitude and peace that can emerge from hardship.
This Remembrance Day serves not only as a solemn reminder of sacrifices made but also as a celebration of enduring love and the commitment to honor those who served. It reflects a broader message of hope, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds of family that continue to thrive, even through adversity.
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