Lavenia Volaukitoga, 62, has dedicated the last 30 years to honoring the memory of her late husband, who was killed during peacekeeping duties in Lebanon. On Remembrance Day, she visited the National War Memorial Grounds in Veiuto, Suva, accompanied by her granddaughter to pay her respects to the fallen soldiers.
Ms. Volaukitoga lost her husband on June 4, 1994, when he was shot down by the militant group Hezbollah. Despite the profound pain of his loss, she credits her faith in God for guiding her through the challenges of raising their five children as a single mother without financial support from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces. She made ends meet by working as a market vendor in Bua, but struggled financially until she was offered a job in 2006 as a cleaner at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks, which she held until 2016. Now, she focuses on caring for her grandchildren, with her eldest granddaughter preparing to take important examinations.
Nineteen-year-old Wakesa Raiwa attended the remembrance event, feeling proud of her grandfather’s legacy as a protector of their family and country. She aspires to become the President, highlighting the supportive family environment that has helped her dream big.
Another attendee, Susana Veretawatini, 59, has been participating in this memorial event yearly since losing her husband, Corporal Lui Veretawatini, who died in Sinai in 2008. Although faced with personal challenges and the hope of having her children enlisted in the military, she remains grateful and finds peace in her life’s journey.
These heartfelt tributes demonstrate the lasting impact of love and sacrifice in the face of adversity, showcasing both the strength and resilience of families. Their stories serve as poignant reminders of the enduring bonds we share and the hope that persists through generations.
In times of remembrance, we often find that these experiences unite communities, allowing families to both honor their loved ones and inspire future generations.
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