On Remembrance Day, Lavenia Volaukitoga, 62, reflected on the loss of her beloved husband, honoring him along with other fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial Grounds in Suva. Accompanied by her granddaughter, Ms. Volaukitoga has made it a tradition to pay her respects each year since her husband was tragically shot down by Hezbollah during a peacekeeping mission in Lebanon on June 4, 1994.
The emotional mother of five credits her resilience to her faith in God, which guided her through years of hardship after her husband’s death. “No matter how painful it was, I chose God,” she shared, explaining how she single-handedly raised her children in Bua without support from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF). Working as a market vendor for a decade, she faced significant financial challenges that hampered her children’s opportunities in life.
In 2006, her perseverance led to a role as a cleaner at Queen Elizabeth Barracks, from which she retired in 2016. Now, she devotes her time to caring for her grandchildren, one of whom, Wakesa Raiwa, expressed heartfelt gratitude for her grandfather’s legacy. Although Wakesa never met him, she aspires to become the President one day, buoyed by her family’s support, particularly from her grandmother.
Similar tributes were paid by Susana Veretawatini, 59, who travels each year from Tailevu to remember her husband, Corporal Lui Veretawatini, who lost his life in Sinai in 2008. Despite the heartache, she finds solace in the memories they shared and is grateful for the peace she has found amidst the struggles.
This Remembrance Day serves as a profound reminder of sacrifice and resilience that transcends loss, showcasing how families honor their loved ones while fostering hope for future generations.
In summary, the stories of Lavenia and Susana highlight not just the pain of losing loved ones but also the enduring strength of families to rise above adversity and inspire the next generation. The warmth and determination of these women illustrate the power of love and remembrance in keeping the legacies of their husbands alive.
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