Lavenia Volaukitoga, aged 62, has dedicated 30 years to honoring her late husband and other fallen soldiers each Remembrance Day. With a heart full of memories, she attended the ceremony at the National War Memorial Grounds in Veiuto, Suva, accompanied by her granddaughter, Wakesa Raiwa.
Ms. Volaukitoga’s husband tragically lost his life on June 4, 1994, after being shot down by Hezbollah while serving on peacekeeping assignments in Lebanon. Emphasizing her resilience, she shared how her faith in God helped her through the immense pain and struggles of raising their five children alone.
“For a decade, I raised my kids in Bua without financial support from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF),” Ms. Volaukitoga recalled. “Being a market vendor was challenging, and it was difficult to provide for my family with such an inconsistent income.”
Her circumstances changed in 2006 when she was offered a position as a cleaner at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Suva, which she held until 2016. Now, her focus is on caring for her grandchildren, with her eldest set to take her first Fiji School Leaving Certificate examination.
Wakesa Raiwa, her 19-year-old granddaughter, expressed her pride in her grandfather’s legacy, despite never having met him. “I know he was a great man, sacrificing for our family and our nation. While I don’t plan to follow in his footsteps as a soldier, I aspire to become the President one day,” she shared with tears in her eyes. Wakesa feels fortunate to have the unwavering support of her family, particularly her grandmother.
Another touching story came from Susana Veretawatini, 59, who has made the journey from Naisomua, Vugalei, Tailevu, to attend the event annually in memory of her late husband, Corporal Lui Veretawatini, who was killed in Sinai in 2008. She reminisced about the love and memories shared with him and expressed her hope for her children to serve with the RFMF, although only her son is currently enlisted.
Both women exemplify the strength and resilience required to navigate life after loss, finding solace in remembrance and the support of family. Their stories serve as poignant reminders of sacrifice and the enduring legacy of those who served.
This touching event highlights the importance of remembrance, family unity, and the strength to forge ahead in the face of adversity, fostering hope and perseverance for future generations.
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