By Spy Uganda
The Special Forces Command (SFC) has honoured 67 officers and men for their dedicated service to Uganda, recognising years of sacrifice and commitment to national security.
The group, comprising junior officers and non-commissioned officers, was honoured during a ceremony attended by senior SFC commanders, colleagues, spouses and relatives.
Other senior officers who attended the ceremony are also expected to officially retire later this year.
Representing the Commander SFC, the Chief of Staff, Brigadier General John Mango Baraza, commended the soldiers for their contribution to the country’s security during their time in service.
He noted that the retirees had served in demanding assignments, including military operations, protection of Very Important Persons (VIPs), peace support missions and other strategic duties.
“Many of you have endured challenges in the course of duty, including long periods away from your families, working in risky environments and accepting sacrifices without hesitation,” Brig Gen Baraza said.
He encouraged the retirees to embrace civilian life with optimism and make good use of the skills, discipline and experience they had gained during their military careers.
Baraza also urged them to continue upholding the values developed during their service, including integrity, patriotism, resilience and discipline.
The Director of Human Resource Management at SFC, Colonel Night Ikiriza, also praised the retirees for their courage, loyalty and selfless commitment to defending Uganda.
Col Ikiriza particularly recognised the role played by spouses and family members, saying their support and sacrifices had enabled the officers and men to serve effectively despite the demands of military life.
The families, he noted, often endured long periods of separation and other challenges as their loved ones carried out their duties across the country and beyond.
Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Capt Boaz Barigye Kazinduki, the senior-most among the junior officers, thanked the UPDF and SFC leadership for the guidance and opportunities they received throughout their careers.
He said the enabling environment provided by the military allowed them to serve in different capacities and gain valuable experience that they can now carry into the next chapter of their lives.
Capt Barigye also appreciated the spouses and relatives of the retirees for standing by them throughout their years of service.
The ceremony was attended by Col Kato, Deputy Commander of 3 SFG, brigade commanders, directors, senior and junior officers, non-commissioned officers, spouses and relatives of the retirees.
The recognition comes as the officers prepare to transition from military service, with their years of experience expected to remain valuable as they take on new responsibilities in civilian life.
