News
LOGISTICS RETAIN TROPHY
By Pte Kalaveti Diri
The Paula Tadrau Memorial Trophy fought amongst Rewa Rugby club teams now once again resides at the Logistics Support Unit Headquarters in Nabua. It is the most sought after trophy within the Rewa Rugby Union.
The LSU Army Rewa team played consistently this season thus retaining the trophy on Saturday 19th June 2010 proving too strong for the Tacilevu team from Lokia by scoring 29 – 0 in the final.
In the second challenge of a much recent competition within the union, LSU Army had a close shave with the Natogadravu team by 5 – 3. Team captain, Lance Corporal Isireli Vakaotia said it to be a “very tough challenge.”
Veteran work horse such as Corporal Inoke Leweni of LSU is among those playing for the LSU Army Rewa side which has significantly contributed to the union being qualified to play in the Digicel/Fairbrother Challenge for 2011.
ARMY GREEN RETAIN SHIELD
By Sgt Viliame Duavakacagi
Army Green retained the oldest rugby trophy in the country after defeating Navy 17 – 14 in a tight clinched match at the TFL National Stadium in Suva on Wednesday 1st September.
Hundreds of fans and supporters flocked the TFL stadium on that chilly night to cheer their teams and witnessed the tit-for-tat match between the two forces during the final round of the Suva Rugby Union competition.
Fighting for the 98 years old Foster’s Group Pacific Limited sponsored shield, the two top teams in the Suva Rugby Union displayed tactics and fitness with high work rate which resulted in a 14 all at full time.
Both teams provided their best line up with many former and current national reps in both fifteens and sevens in the first fifteen.
Captain of the the Navy side, Alefoso Yalayalatabua with the assistance of their experienced players like Manasa Saulo, Kamenieli Neiqisa , Nikola Matawalu and Epeli Ruivadra worked tirelessly but their way to victory was shut down by Army rugged defense.
National winger Epeli Ruivadra showed his class when he scored the only try in the first half which was added with two penalties from their nippy fly-half before half time.
For the men from Nabua, their points came from three penalties which were converted by lanky Sunia Bainivalu to put their points at 9 – 11 during the first spell.
The game heated up in the second half which saw Army Green captain, Dale Tonawai red carded after a high tackle after ten minutes of play.
With that penalty Navy and Suva fly half Kameneli Neiqisa again hit the cross bar to take the lead at 14- 9.
Even though their captain was sent out of the field, the men from Nabua never gave up, and played their guts out with the guidance of vice captain Sairusi Ranuku, leading the assault to cross the line with a push over try.
At full time the two forces were tied at 14 all but after a short deliberation by SRU officials, they decided that whoever scores the first points in the first ten minutes of sudden death would take the shield.
The game became physical in the extra time and with three minutes in the game, former national sevens rep and Army fullback Iliavi Satala received a ball form a navy high kick and didn’t have a second thought but decided to take a drop goal from almost half length of the field which was successful sends the army fans in wild celebrations around the park and ended up at QEB.
Drums of the RFMF Band reverberated at Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua on Thursday morning as the champion Army Green team and supporters conducted a victory parade marching through camp to display the spoils of victory – the Forster’s Group Pacific Limited sponsored Escot Shield.
EIGHTY FOUR GRADUATES FROM UNARMED ACADEMY
By Sgt Josefa Bola
The RFMF Unarmed Combat Academy held a grading ceremony for 84 Hapkido trainees for red belt. They had begun the course from the month of May this year.
The Land Force Commander, Brigadier Pita Driti was chief guest on the occasion with CO FTG, Senior Officers of the Fiji Police Force and Fiji Prisons Services amongst the invited. The Top Ground at QEB was also packed with families and friends eager to witness the display of unarmed skills in Hapkido.
The class of graduates was assisted by 25 Black Belt instructors led by Chief Instructor WO2 Tevita Korovou, 5th Dan Hapkido and Assistance Chief Instructor WO2 Pita Ramasima, 4th Dan Taekwondo of the Academy.
The grading ceremony began at about 9:00 am on Tuesday 31 August, 2010 with a short devotion and was immediately followed by the grading proper. Apart from the traditional 18 techniques the students who were divided into three groups were tested on 100 techniques and 45 finger-tips push-ups. So far, according to WO2 Pita Ramasima, the students have learned over 200 techniques.
Ninety-two candidates initially began the course but only 7 females and 77 males had been given the opportunity to be graded for Red Belt. The class is composed of students from other services such as the Navy, Prisons Department and Fiji Police Force. A number of children of the members of RFMF were among the batch of trainees.
In his speech, the Land Force Commander, Brig Pita Driti, thanked students, instructors, families and friends for their support. He encouraged those students who have not received their red belts to try again and that he wanted to see them wearing their black belts after the next grading which will be in November.
Twenty-one year old Filipe Alifereti, son of Corporal Faga Avoika of the 3FIR, liked the program very much. “It will help me in self-defense especially helping other during times of danger.”
Special Constable Daniel Naidu of the FPF said that the course has helped him improve his standards of self-discipline. His parents were there to witness him put on his red belt. His father, Inspector Ragan Gounder, who is Training and Drug Officer Western, is testimony to the improvement in his son’s discipline since undergoing the course.
POC Avinesh Narayan of the Fiji Prisons and Correctional Services praised the program and said, “It has brought the services working together and knowing each other better.”
DISCIPLINE THE KEY TO SUCCESS
By Sgt Viliame Duavakacagi
“Discipline brings about success in every way,” was the word echoed by the Prime Minister of Fiji and Commander of the Republic Fiji Military Forces, Commodore Frank Bainimarama to the Youth Cadets Passing-Out Parade held at Tai District School in Vugalei, Tailevu on Friday 27th August, 2010.
Hundreds of family members, friends and colleagues braved the sun and flocked in large numbers to the Tai District School grounds to witness the successful passing-out parade reviewed by the Prime Minister.
The impressed commander showed his appreciation to parents, relatives and the youths of Vugalei for inviting him to be guest to the esteemed occasion.
Commodore Bainimarama not only thanked the Fiji Military Force for giving their time and effort in training the future generation of Vugalei but also thanked various government ministries and bodies that contributed to the education and development of these successful cadets.
These ministries and bodies included Agriculture, Health, Civil Military Affairs, Training and Productivity Authority of Fiji, Office of the Commissioner Central and the Public Utilities, Works and Transport.
On reviewing the parade, Commodore Bainimarama said, “This morning we have come together to witness one way on how we can improve the lives of our youths to become better citizens of our future generations. They have successfully demonstrated in front of us today what they have been taught during the last 8 weeks.”
“We are witness to the result of team work and working together under a single command through obedience that has been on display here today. It has impressed me to see that these youths have put aside the attitude of idleness and have occupied themselves skills of discipline that can make their lives a fruitful one,” Commodore Bainimarama said.
He challenged cadets on pass-out in that the country will be depending on them in the future.
INSTRUCTOR LAID TO REST
By Kalivati Diri
Prime Minister and Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Force, Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama, officers, men and women bid farewell to a training instructor Staff Sergeant Vuniwai Senikarawa Buadromo at his Nadaro village cemetery on Wednesday, 25th August, 2010.
SSgt Buadromo who was born on the 25th September 1970 was based at the Army Training Group in Nasinu when passed away at his home after a short illness.
Hundreds of family members, friends and colleagues gathered to witness a full military burial ceremony accorded to a tireless Senior Non Commissioned Officer who has dedicated his 21 years of service to the military.
During the ceremony, Captain Viliame Naisau who delivered the eulogy for the late SNCO and spoke on behalf of the military said that, ‘Bua’ which he was affectionately called, was a very kind and a loving soldier and a man with good relationship to all people.
Capt Naisau said that the late SSgt Buadromo who enlisted into the RFMF in1987 was friendly to all and dedicated a large part of his life to the institution.
SSgt Buadromo’s hard work had not gone unnoticed by the military during deployments locally and abroad. |He had been awarded the United Nations Interim Forces in Lebanon (UNIFIL), Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) and United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI) medals.
SSgt Buadromo is survived by his wife Virisine and two sons Seremai Qirivabea who is attending tertiary school and little Jone Badromo who currently stays home with mum.
HEADQUARTERS RFMF WIVES SCOOPS OVERALL TROPHY
By Tevita Koto
The HQ RFMF wives scooped seven prizes at the Sports & Social meet in Labasa during the weekend.
The succesful gatherings of army wives in the north was enjoyed by all who attended the meet.
In addition to the Overall Trophy, the HQ wives also won the Soli competition, the most disciplined team, winners in the best dress netball 'A grade' and were runners up to the Netball 'B Grade' & veteran and also the best dress in the netball veteran's grade.
3FIR were winners in the netball 'A & B grade" and best dress in the veterans netball team.RFMF Engineers won the best dressvolleyball team and runners up to the Netball 'A grade' competition. HQ LFC scoop the choir competition and runners up to the netball A grade best dress competition.
In the volleyball competition the Echo team from Lautoka took out the top honors while G Coy in Labasa were runners up and the Force Training group were runners up in the best dress volleyball team.
COMMANDERS BE TEST ON
By Tevita Koto
The last Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commanders Battle Effeciency Test for this year started off this morning Thursday 19 with troops stationed at the Berkley Cresent Strategic Headquarters (SHQ) taking the lead.
A little over 30 soldiers took to the streets early this morning with rifles,packs and webbing.
After a good stretch and a bit of a warm-up, the troops hit the road. The pace from the start was brisk, but manageable. Pushing through the Raiwaqa, Raiwai stretch before turning down towards Vatuwaqa and finally to the rifle range, the platoon finished within the time limit and, more importantly, there were no stragglers. The fireman's carry and the attempt to hit the bullseye with 5rounds completed the test.
The aim of the Battle Efficiency Test is to asses the minimum level of physical and battle readiness that is acceptable for military personnel.This test is conducted once in every 6 months.
The rest of SHQ staff will complete their BE test tomorrow morning before the test is moved to other Units.
WIVES LOOK FORWARD TO MEET
By Tevita Koto
The Army wives and mothers club are looking forward to their annual sports and social gathering this weekend.
The annual sports meet between wives and mothers of army and naval personnel will be hosted by the 3rd Battalion Fiji Infantry Regiment 7/8 Unit based at the Sukanaivalu Barracks in Labasa.
The Inter-unit tournament which includes volleyball and netball is played in different age categories and ends with a social night. A church service will also be held on Sunday morning to farewell participants.
The objective of the event is to foster cordial relationships amongst its members and unite the wives of soldiers and seaman nationwide in order to encourage understanding, cooperation, and camaraderie among them. It further intends to promote the feeling of true friendship and oneness.
Prime Minister Commodore Frank Bainimarama will officiate at the opening of the event.
ARMY AND NAVY TO BATTLE FOR RUGBY SUPREMACY
By Tevita Koto
Suva Rugby Union Skaffworks Trophy holder Navy will try to wrestle the only prized possession left in the Army’s cabinet the Escort Shield and become this season’s Suva rugby champ when the two sides meet next month.
The Fresh’et International Navy team has been consistent with its performance this season.
First they won the Inter-Unit Bouganville challenge and than they defeated Army a fortnight ago to take the Skaffworks trophy and last Friday they showed their class when they defeated a powerful Police team 13 – 6.
The boys from the Stanley Brown base is looking to etched their name on the Escort shield for the first time.
Defending Escort Shield champion Army Green on the other hand is trying to keep the shield for the third time in a row and deny Navy the chance of becoming the new champion.
Army managed to reach the finals after defeating neighbors Nabua 19 -3 with all points coming from former national playmaker Iliavi Satala.
SOLDIERS READY FOR PTI COURSES
By Kalaveti Driti
Some 40 soldiers from various units of the RFMF have been selected to attend a Physical Training Instructors Course at the Force Training Group in Nasinu on Monday 9th August, 2010. Before the course commenced Chief Staff Officer - Operations, Lieutenant Colonel Jone Logavatu Kalouniwai addressed participants on the significance of the training they were about to receive.
In his speech, Lt Col Kalouniwai said that since the 1987 coup, there have been a marked decline in the quality of service rendered and had thus tarnished the reputation of the RFMF over the years.
He added that what is currently needed is to bring back the quality of service that the military was known for and proud of. In doing this, they must adhere carefully to the Commander’s Intent in order to regain this lost status.
Lt Col Kalouniwai said that there have been cases where soldiers have been found to be unfit and with questionable health. Some have not done their part to keep up with daily physical fitness and maintain a good healthy lifestyle. The Colonel said, “This course is, therefore, very crucial in that upon completion of your training you will instill knowledge you have gained here into your fellow comrades back at your parent units.”
“The success or failure of this program I now charge you with this morning”, Lt Col stressed to participants.
Course Manager, Warrant Officer Class One Osea Bainitabua stated that the duration of the PTI Course will be for three weeks and will run on weekdays only.. It will cover exercises and physical training syllabuses that a good PTI should be armed with within the force.
RUGBY TEAMS IN SEMIS
By Tevita Koto
Both the Army and Navy rugby teams will be playing in the semi-final of the country’s oldest rugby prize the Escort Shield competition.
The Escort shield which has been around for more than 90years is being competed for in the Suva’s Rugby Union Premier division.
The match which kicks off at 5.30pm will see Army Green takes on neighbor Nabua and the boys from the Stanley Brown Naval base meet Police.
The boys from Delainabua will want to retain the shield for the third time and rectify the mistakes which cost them the Skaff Works trophy to Navy last month.
Navy defeated Army green in that close encounter when former Able Seaman and Stormers winger Sireli Naqelevuki ran more than 20 meters to score a classy try.
NAUSORI YOUNGSTERS VISIT QEB
By Peni Waqaimoala
More than 20 students, teachers and parents of Vunimono Islamia Primary School of Nausori were at the Queens Elizabeth Barracks on Thursday 5th August 2010 to witness a display of arms, unarmed techniques and equipment.
The visit was led by School Teacher, Mrs. Singh who was quite surprised herself by what she saw. She said that members of her group have never been to an army camp before and the visit has been an experience in itself.
“We even witnessed how military personals lived and how they handle their weapons. We appreciate their work around the world and in safeguarding our nation. Students also had a feel of some of the weapons and equipment. So this visit will certainly not only be enjoyable to them but also educational,” the School Teacher said.
RICHMOND PRINCIPAL RECEIVE KEYS TO TEACHERS’ QUARTERS
By Peni Waqaimoala
The Principal of Richmond High School in Kadavu was a happy man when he received keys to the school’s newly built teachers’ quarters handed-over to him by the Operations Officer of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Engineers Corp, Captain Viliame Finemateaki at the school hall on Wednesday 4th August, 2010.
Teachers and management committee were present at the school hall that day to witness a small ceremony of handover to the Principle,
Mr. Setareki Merikula, who hails from Visama, Nakelo, Tailevu.
The event was very significant to the villagers as evident by a herald who spoke on behalf of the committee during the ‘I vakavinavinaka’ a Fijian thanksgiving ceremony conducted by the hostto the delegation from Suva led by Capt Finemateaki. He could not keep back tears of joy and gratitude on the tremendous work done by the RFMF Engineers and government of the day.
“I have served here for ten years and have never witnessed such a development of this magnitude to be made to this school,” Principle Merikula said. He added that he was glad that this development happened during his tenure as Principal since 2005.
“We didn’t really expect the quality of work and materials would be as good as we see today and the short time of two months in which it was completed is something that can only be a miracle from God far beyond what we had requested to the Prime Minister during his visit here,” the Principle added.
He sent his personal gratitude to the Prime Minister, Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama and his government. He did not forget the small team of sappers led by Corporal Ponipate Qoro for the construction of such a fine living quarters to cater for teachers serving at Richmond High School.
“I would also like to give our sincere thanks to the Commissioner Eastern on behalf of the school committee, teachers, parents and student of the school for remembering Richmond. Such fine quality building construction is certainly a first for Kadavu,” Mr. Setareki concluded.
LOGISTICS RETAIN TROPHY
By Pte Kalaveti Diri
The Paula Tadrau Memorial Trophy fought amongst Rewa Rugby club teams now once again resides at the Logistics Support Unit Headquarters in Nabua. It is the most sought after trophy within the Rewa Rugby Union.
The LSU Army Rewa team played consistently this season thus retaining the trophy on Saturday 19th June 2010 proving too strong for the Tacilevu team from Lokia by scoring 29 – 0 in the final.
In the second challenge of a much recent competition within the union, LSU Army had a close shave with the Natogadravu team by 5 – 3. Team captain, Lance Corporal Isireli Vakaotia said it to be a “very tough challenge.”
Veteran work horse such as Corporal Inoke Leweni of LSU is among those playing for the LSU Army Rewa side which has significantly contributed to the union being qualified to play in the Digicel/Fairbrother Challenge for 2011.
ARMY GREEN RETAIN SHIELD
By Sgt Viliame Duavakacagi
Army Green retained the oldest rugby trophy in the country after defeating Navy 17 – 14 in a tight clinched match at the TFL National Stadium in Suva on Wednesday 1st September.
Hundreds of fans and supporters flocked the TFL stadium on that chilly night to cheer their teams and witnessed the tit-for-tat match between the two forces during the final round of the Suva Rugby Union competition.
Fighting for the 98 years old Foster’s Group Pacific Limited sponsored shield, the two top teams in the Suva Rugby Union displayed tactics and fitness with high work rate which resulted in a 14 all at full time.
Both teams provided their best line up with many former and current national reps in both fifteens and sevens in the first fifteen.
Captain of the the Navy side, Alefoso Yalayalatabua with the assistance of their experienced players like Manasa Saulo, Kamenieli Neiqisa , Nikola Matawalu and Epeli Ruivadra worked tirelessly but their way to victory was shut down by Army rugged defense.
National winger Epeli Ruivadra showed his class when he scored the only try in the first half which was added with two penalties from their nippy fly-half before half time.
For the men from Nabua, their points came from three penalties which were converted by lanky Sunia Bainivalu to put their points at 9 – 11 during the first spell.
The game heated up in the second half which saw Army Green captain, Dale Tonawai red carded after a high tackle after ten minutes of play.
With that penalty Navy and Suva fly half Kameneli Neiqisa again hit the cross bar to take the lead at 14- 9.
Even though their captain was sent out of the field, the men from Nabua never gave up, and played their guts out with the guidance of vice captain Sairusi Ranuku, leading the assault to cross the line with a push over try.
At full time the two forces were tied at 14 all but after a short deliberation by SRU officials, they decided that whoever scores the first points in the first ten minutes of sudden death would take the shield.
The game became physical in the extra time and with three minutes in the game, former national sevens rep and Army fullback Iliavi Satala received a ball form a navy high kick and didn’t have a second thought but decided to take a drop goal from almost half length of the field which was successful sends the army fans in wild celebrations around the park and ended up at QEB.
Drums of the RFMF Band reverberated at Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua on Thursday morning as the champion Army Green team and supporters conducted a victory parade marching through camp to display the spoils of victory – the Forster’s Group Pacific Limited sponsored Escot Shield.
EIGHTY FOUR GRADUATES FROM UNARMED ACADEMY
By Sgt Josefa Bola
The RFMF Unarmed Combat Academy held a grading ceremony for 84 Hapkido trainees for red belt. They had begun the course from the month of May this year.
The Land Force Commander, Brigadier Pita Driti was chief guest on the occasion with CO FTG, Senior Officers of the Fiji Police Force and Fiji Prisons Services amongst the invited. The Top Ground at QEB was also packed with families and friends eager to witness the display of unarmed skills in Hapkido.
The class of graduates was assisted by 25 Black Belt instructors led by Chief Instructor WO2 Tevita Korovou, 5th Dan Hapkido and Assistance Chief Instructor WO2 Pita Ramasima, 4th Dan Taekwondo of the Academy.
The grading ceremony began at about 9:00 am on Tuesday 31 August, 2010 with a short devotion and was immediately followed by the grading proper. Apart from the traditional 18 techniques the students who were divided into three groups were tested on 100 techniques and 45 finger-tips push-ups. So far, according to WO2 Pita Ramasima, the students have learned over 200 techniques.
Ninety-two candidates initially began the course but only 7 females and 77 males had been given the opportunity to be graded for Red Belt. The class is composed of students from other services such as the Navy, Prisons Department and Fiji Police Force. A number of children of the members of RFMF were among the batch of trainees.
In his speech, the Land Force Commander, Brig Pita Driti, thanked students, instructors, families and friends for their support. He encouraged those students who have not received their red belts to try again and that he wanted to see them wearing their black belts after the next grading which will be in November.
Twenty-one year old Filipe Alifereti, son of Corporal Faga Avoika of the 3FIR, liked the program very much. “It will help me in self-defense especially helping other during times of danger.”
Special Constable Daniel Naidu of the FPF said that the course has helped him improve his standards of self-discipline. His parents were there to witness him put on his red belt. His father, Inspector Ragan Gounder, who is Training and Drug Officer Western, is testimony to the improvement in his son’s discipline since undergoing the course.
POC Avinesh Narayan of the Fiji Prisons and Correctional Services praised the program and said, “It has brought the services working together and knowing each other better.”
DISCIPLINE THE KEY TO SUCCESS
By Sgt Viliame Duavakacagi
“Discipline brings about success in every way,” was the word echoed by the Prime Minister of Fiji and Commander of the Republic Fiji Military Forces, Commodore Frank Bainimarama to the Youth Cadets Passing-Out Parade held at Tai District School in Vugalei, Tailevu on Friday 27th August, 2010.
Hundreds of family members, friends and colleagues braved the sun and flocked in large numbers to the Tai District School grounds to witness the successful passing-out parade reviewed by the Prime Minister.
The impressed commander showed his appreciation to parents, relatives and the youths of Vugalei for inviting him to be guest to the esteemed occasion.
Commodore Bainimarama not only thanked the Fiji Military Force for giving their time and effort in training the future generation of Vugalei but also thanked various government ministries and bodies that contributed to the education and development of these successful cadets.
These ministries and bodies included Agriculture, Health, Civil Military Affairs, Training and Productivity Authority of Fiji, Office of the Commissioner Central and the Public Utilities, Works and Transport.
On reviewing the parade, Commodore Bainimarama said, “This morning we have come together to witness one way on how we can improve the lives of our youths to become better citizens of our future generations. They have successfully demonstrated in front of us today what they have been taught during the last 8 weeks.”
“We are witness to the result of team work and working together under a single command through obedience that has been on display here today. It has impressed me to see that these youths have put aside the attitude of idleness and have occupied themselves skills of discipline that can make their lives a fruitful one,” Commodore Bainimarama said.
He challenged cadets on pass-out in that the country will be depending on them in the future.
INSTRUCTOR LAID TO REST
By Kalivati Diri
Prime Minister and Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Force, Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama, officers, men and women bid farewell to a training instructor Staff Sergeant Vuniwai Senikarawa Buadromo at his Nadaro village cemetery on Wednesday, 25th August, 2010.
SSgt Buadromo who was born on the 25th September 1970 was based at the Army Training Group in Nasinu when passed away at his home after a short illness.
Hundreds of family members, friends and colleagues gathered to witness a full military burial ceremony accorded to a tireless Senior Non Commissioned Officer who has dedicated his 21 years of service to the military.
During the ceremony, Captain Viliame Naisau who delivered the eulogy for the late SNCO and spoke on behalf of the military said that, ‘Bua’ which he was affectionately called, was a very kind and a loving soldier and a man with good relationship to all people.
Capt Naisau said that the late SSgt Buadromo who enlisted into the RFMF in1987 was friendly to all and dedicated a large part of his life to the institution.
SSgt Buadromo’s hard work had not gone unnoticed by the military during deployments locally and abroad. |He had been awarded the United Nations Interim Forces in Lebanon (UNIFIL), Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) and United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI) medals.
SSgt Buadromo is survived by his wife Virisine and two sons Seremai Qirivabea who is attending tertiary school and little Jone Badromo who currently stays home with mum.
HEADQUARTERS RFMF WIVES SCOOPS OVERALL TROPHY
By Tevita Koto
The HQ RFMF wives scooped seven prizes at the Sports & Social meet in Labasa during the weekend.
The succesful gatherings of army wives in the north was enjoyed by all who attended the meet.
In addition to the Overall Trophy, the HQ wives also won the Soli competition, the most disciplined team, winners in the best dress netball 'A grade' and were runners up to the Netball 'B Grade' & veteran and also the best dress in the netball veteran's grade.
3FIR were winners in the netball 'A & B grade" and best dress in the veterans netball team.RFMF Engineers won the best dressvolleyball team and runners up to the Netball 'A grade' competition. HQ LFC scoop the choir competition and runners up to the netball A grade best dress competition.
In the volleyball competition the Echo team from Lautoka took out the top honors while G Coy in Labasa were runners up and the Force Training group were runners up in the best dress volleyball team.
COMMANDERS BE TEST ON
By Tevita Koto
The last Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commanders Battle Effeciency Test for this year started off this morning Thursday 19 with troops stationed at the Berkley Cresent Strategic Headquarters (SHQ) taking the lead.
A little over 30 soldiers took to the streets early this morning with rifles,packs and webbing.
After a good stretch and a bit of a warm-up, the troops hit the road. The pace from the start was brisk, but manageable. Pushing through the Raiwaqa, Raiwai stretch before turning down towards Vatuwaqa and finally to the rifle range, the platoon finished within the time limit and, more importantly, there were no stragglers. The fireman's carry and the attempt to hit the bullseye with 5rounds completed the test.
The aim of the Battle Efficiency Test is to asses the minimum level of physical and battle readiness that is acceptable for military personnel.This test is conducted once in every 6 months.
The rest of SHQ staff will complete their BE test tomorrow morning before the test is moved to other Units.
WIVES LOOK FORWARD TO MEET
By Tevita Koto
The Army wives and mothers club are looking forward to their annual sports and social gathering this weekend.
The annual sports meet between wives and mothers of army and naval personnel will be hosted by the 3rd Battalion Fiji Infantry Regiment 7/8 Unit based at the Sukanaivalu Barracks in Labasa.
The Inter-unit tournament which includes volleyball and netball is played in different age categories and ends with a social night. A church service will also be held on Sunday morning to farewell participants.
The objective of the event is to foster cordial relationships amongst its members and unite the wives of soldiers and seaman nationwide in order to encourage understanding, cooperation, and camaraderie among them. It further intends to promote the feeling of true friendship and oneness.
Prime Minister Commodore Frank Bainimarama will officiate at the opening of the event.
ARMY AND NAVY TO BATTLE FOR RUGBY SUPREMACY
By Tevita Koto
Suva Rugby Union Skaffworks Trophy holder Navy will try to wrestle the only prized possession left in the Army’s cabinet the Escort Shield and become this season’s Suva rugby champ when the two sides meet next month.
The Fresh’et International Navy team has been consistent with its performance this season.
First they won the Inter-Unit Bouganville challenge and than they defeated Army a fortnight ago to take the Skaffworks trophy and last Friday they showed their class when they defeated a powerful Police team 13 – 6.
The boys from the Stanley Brown base is looking to etched their name on the Escort shield for the first time.
Defending Escort Shield champion Army Green on the other hand is trying to keep the shield for the third time in a row and deny Navy the chance of becoming the new champion.
Army managed to reach the finals after defeating neighbors Nabua 19 -3 with all points coming from former national playmaker Iliavi Satala.
SOLDIERS READY FOR PTI COURSES
By Kalaveti Driti
Some 40 soldiers from various units of the RFMF have been selected to attend a Physical Training Instructors Course at the Force Training Group in Nasinu on Monday 9th August, 2010. Before the course commenced Chief Staff Officer - Operations, Lieutenant Colonel Jone Logavatu Kalouniwai addressed participants on the significance of the training they were about to receive.
In his speech, Lt Col Kalouniwai said that since the 1987 coup, there have been a marked decline in the quality of service rendered and had thus tarnished the reputation of the RFMF over the years.
He added that what is currently needed is to bring back the quality of service that the military was known for and proud of. In doing this, they must adhere carefully to the Commander’s Intent in order to regain this lost status.
Lt Col Kalouniwai said that there have been cases where soldiers have been found to be unfit and with questionable health. Some have not done their part to keep up with daily physical fitness and maintain a good healthy lifestyle. The Colonel said, “This course is, therefore, very crucial in that upon completion of your training you will instill knowledge you have gained here into your fellow comrades back at your parent units.”
“The success or failure of this program I now charge you with this morning”, Lt Col stressed to participants.
Course Manager, Warrant Officer Class One Osea Bainitabua stated that the duration of the PTI Course will be for three weeks and will run on weekdays only.. It will cover exercises and physical training syllabuses that a good PTI should be armed with within the force.
RUGBY TEAMS IN SEMIS
By Tevita Koto
Both the Army and Navy rugby teams will be playing in the semi-final of the country’s oldest rugby prize the Escort Shield competition.
The Escort shield which has been around for more than 90years is being competed for in the Suva’s Rugby Union Premier division.
The match which kicks off at 5.30pm will see Army Green takes on neighbor Nabua and the boys from the Stanley Brown Naval base meet Police.
The boys from Delainabua will want to retain the shield for the third time and rectify the mistakes which cost them the Skaff Works trophy to Navy last month.
Navy defeated Army green in that close encounter when former Able Seaman and Stormers winger Sireli Naqelevuki ran more than 20 meters to score a classy try.
NAUSORI YOUNGSTERS VISIT QEB
By Peni Waqaimoala
More than 20 students, teachers and parents of Vunimono Islamia Primary School of Nausori were at the Queens Elizabeth Barracks on Thursday 5th August 2010 to witness a display of arms, unarmed techniques and equipment.
The visit was led by School Teacher, Mrs. Singh who was quite surprised herself by what she saw. She said that members of her group have never been to an army camp before and the visit has been an experience in itself.
“We even witnessed how military personals lived and how they handle their weapons. We appreciate their work around the world and in safeguarding our nation. Students also had a feel of some of the weapons and equipment. So this visit will certainly not only be enjoyable to them but also educational,” the School Teacher said.
RICHMOND PRINCIPAL RECEIVE KEYS TO TEACHERS’ QUARTERS
By Peni Waqaimoala
The Principal of Richmond High School in Kadavu was a happy man when he received keys to the school’s newly built teachers’ quarters handed-over to him by the Operations Officer of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Engineers Corp, Captain Viliame Finemateaki at the school hall on Wednesday 4th August, 2010.
Teachers and management committee were present at the school hall that day to witness a small ceremony of handover to the Principle,
Mr. Setareki Merikula, who hails from Visama, Nakelo, Tailevu.
The event was very significant to the villagers as evident by a herald who spoke on behalf of the committee during the ‘I vakavinavinaka’ a Fijian thanksgiving ceremony conducted by the hostto the delegation from Suva led by Capt Finemateaki. He could not keep back tears of joy and gratitude on the tremendous work done by the RFMF Engineers and government of the day.
“I have served here for ten years and have never witnessed such a development of this magnitude to be made to this school,” Principle Merikula said. He added that he was glad that this development happened during his tenure as Principal since 2005.
“We didn’t really expect the quality of work and materials would be as good as we see today and the short time of two months in which it was completed is something that can only be a miracle from God far beyond what we had requested to the Prime Minister during his visit here,” the Principle added.
He sent his personal gratitude to the Prime Minister, Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama and his government. He did not forget the small team of sappers led by Corporal Ponipate Qoro for the construction of such a fine living quarters to cater for teachers serving at Richmond High School.
“I would also like to give our sincere thanks to the Commissioner Eastern on behalf of the school committee, teachers, parents and student of the school for remembering Richmond. Such fine quality building construction is certainly a first for Kadavu,” Mr. Setareki concluded.