Lavenia Volaukitoga, 62, has dedicated her life to honoring the memory of her late husband on every Remembrance Day since his passing 30 years ago. Accompanied by her granddaughter, she visited the National War Memorial Grounds in Veiuto, Suva, to pay respects to the fallen soldiers, including her husband, who lost his life while serving on peacekeeping duties in Lebanon after being shot down by Hezbollah on June 4, 1994.
Reflecting on her journey, Ms. Volaukitoga expressed gratitude to God for helping her navigate the pain and challenges of raising five children on her own. Without any financial support from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), she worked tirelessly as a market vendor in Bua to provide for her family. She candidly acknowledged the difficulties they faced, stating, “And that’s the reason why my children didn’t make it in life, because there was no regular income to support us financially.”
In 2006, her perseverance paid off when she received a job offer from the RFMF as a cleaner at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks office in Suva, a role she held until 2016. Currently, she spends her days caring for her grandchildren, one of whom, 19-year-old Wakesa Raiwa, is preparing to take her first Fiji School Leaving Certificate examination.
Wakesa, filled with emotion, spoke about her grandfather’s legacy, stating, “I may not have seen my grandfather, but I know he was a great man, giving his all to protect my family and our nation.” While she doesn’t aspire to be a soldier, Wakesa dreams of one day becoming the President, a testament to the support she receives from her family, particularly her grandmother.
Another poignant story came from Susana Veretawatini, 59, who travels annually from Naisomua, Vugalei, Tailevu, to commemorate her husband, Corporal Lui Veretawatini, who was killed in Sinai in 2008. Despite her hopes of having both of her children enlist in the RFMF, only her son has joined, while her daughter’s circumstances changed. Ms. Veretawatini reflected on her hardships, expressing that they have shaped her into a person filled with peace and gratitude.
This year’s Remembrance Day brought together families united in grief yet bound by hope and resilience, honoring their loved ones’ sacrifices for the sake of peace and freedom.
In a world where loss is often heavy, Ms. Volaukitoga and Ms. Veretawatini’s stories remind us of the strength found in community and the importance of remembrance. Their journeys reflect not just suffering, but also the enduring spirit of hope and the drive to create a better future for the generations to come. This call to resilience and remembrance is a beacon of hope amid adversity.
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