Two members of St John Fiji were honored for their years of service to the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem Fiji during a medal investiture ceremony in Suva on Thursday.
St John Fiji National Council chairman, Dr. Ratu Vereniki Raiwalui, was invested as a Commander of the Order of St John, while Emma Mariani Bovoro was invested as an Officer of the Order.
The ceremony was officiated by Knight of St John and former Fiji president, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau. He noted that the event was significant for the order, which was established in 1939 and celebrated its 85th anniversary this year.
“To be honored today and recognized for their years of service to the order and the people of our beloved nation,” said Ratu Epeli.
He mentioned that he understood the Order of St John Fiji was looking to further expand its work.
“This recognition comes after their efforts during the COVID-19 period when many lives and families were protected, thanks to the service provided by St John Fiji. At the same time, acknowledging the need to decentralize and further extend their work to our most vulnerable communities.”