The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) today (12 June, 2025) marked the graduation of 46 Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) pass-out parade held at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks Drill Square in Nabua.

The parade celebrated the successful completion of the 1/25 SNCO Course — a rigorous 15-week training designed to equip future leaders with essential knowledge, skills, and values required of SNCOs.

The Commanding Officer of the Logistics Support Unit, Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) Sirino Ropate, officiated as chief guest at the parade. In his address, Lt Col Ropate reminded the graduates that completing the course was not just an achievement, but a responsibility.

“This course is not just a milestone, it’s a commitment. A commitment to the RFMF values: Integrity, Courage, Loyalty, and Discipline,” Lt Col Ropate said.

Lt Col Ropate Highlighted the importance of leadership and urged the graduates to uphold integrity and teamwork.

“Integrity is doing what is right, even when no one is watching. As SNCOs, your soldiers will not just hear your words, they will follow your actions,” Lt Col Ropate said.

“You are now the standard bearers. You must be honest, consistent, and accountable. You must lead with moral strength and never compromise your values for convenience.”

Lt Col Ropate also reinforced the importance of Teamwork, stating, “Teamwork is the backbone of military cohesion. No mission succeeds without it. Throughout this course, you supported one another, overcame obstacles together and that unity must carry on.”

Lastly, Lt Col Ropate extended his appreciation to the Force Training Group staff and the Logistics Support Unit team for their professionalism and dedication in running the course.

Closing his remarks, Lt Col Ropate urged the graduates to let their leadership shine within their units. He encouraged them to uphold the values of the RFMF, live with integrity, build stronger teams, lead with resilience, and most importantly, to practice what they preach.

1/25 𝙎𝙉𝘾𝙊 𝘾𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚 𝘼𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙨:

The Best Student in Operations Award: 29986 SGT Sakeasi Verevuni – Echo Company

The Best Student in Drill Award: 31733 SGT Simeli Nitaboko – 3FIR

The Best Student in Academic and Administration Award: 34580 SGT Emosi Qolisese – LSU

The Best Student in Training Award: 32632 SGT Ratu Savenaca Ravoka – 3FIR

The Peers Award: 30929 SGT Onikisa Tuicakau – SHQ

The Best Student in Leadership Award: 30929 SGT Onikisa Tuicakau – SHQ

The Top Student Award: 30929 SGT Onikisa Tuicakau – SHQ