THE rhythmic precision of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) defined a day of high ceremony yesterday as the late Na Turaga Taukei Naisogolaca, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, returned to his ancestral home.
A guard of honour comprising 100 army and 100 navy personnel stood at attention for 30 minutes at the rara on Bau, their Colour Party held high in a display of unwavering discipline.
The transition from a long attention to “stand at ease” marked the heavy anticipation of the arrival.
As the RFMF band struck the chords of the National Anthem, the casket of the former president was marched into the vatanitawake.
The military precision was matched by a touching natural shift; after a period of gloomy, wet weather, the sky cleared to reveal the sun as the procession reached the island.
