{Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Gen James Kabarebe on 24th July 2015 presided over the send-off ceremony of Retiring Senior Officers that took place at RDF Sports Club, Nyarutarama. The ceremony was attended by the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen P Nyamvumba, Service Chiefs, Generals nd Senior Officers. The retiring Senior Officers were accompanied by their Spouses.}
The RDF conducted similar ceremonies for Junior Officers and Other Ranks in their respective RDF Units. A total 448 RDF Officers and Men retired in this third retirement phase 2015.
Gen James Kabarebe, Minister of Defence congratulated the Retiring Senior Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers and Men of RDF. “You have made personal sacrifices and contributed to make Rwanda a country we are proud to call home” he said.
Gen Kabarebe thanked the Retiring Officers for contribution to the liberation of Rwanda and their active role in the campaign to stop the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi. He also thanked them for contribution to national programs, to the professionalization of RDF and participation in various Military and International peace operations. “For these personal dedication, commitment and patriotism, we say thank you” he said.
Minister Kabarebe urged the Retiring Officers to utilize the immense experience acquired in military service for the development of their families and the nation. “We urge you to remain responsible citizens upholding true values of the Institution that you served so dearly” he said.
The RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen P Nyamvumba lauded the courage that characterized the Retiring Officers during their service. “You dedicated your lives to work for Rwanda’s security and peace, which was achieved; we will never forget your devotion and courage and this is a time to look back with admiration and look forward with anticipation” the CDS said.
Gen Nyamvumba underlined that the objective of Retirement is a normal phase in a professional military aimed at ensuring continuity of the institution. This is the reason RDF officers and men who attain retirement age should retire and provide space for a young generation to carry on the mantle of liberation.
The CDS particularly thanked the spouses for their support that enabled the Retiring Officers to accomplish successfully their military duties until the honour able retirement.
Col Emmanuel Karemera who spoke on behalf of Retiring Officers thanked the RDF leadership for advice and enduring values in their journey of military service. He said that they are proud of their country, having served with honour and are retiring satisfied that the country is secure.
Leave a Reply