Returning from his final tour of duty (TOD) with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) was a bittersweet moment for Sergeant Aminiasi Koroinamusudroka Radrodro.
The 54-year-old soldier arrived home earlier this week from his last overseas deployment under the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI).
After completing eight tours of duty, he has officially closed the final chapter of his peacekeeping career with the military.
Speaking to The Sunday Times this week, Sergeant Aminiasi became emotional as he reflected on returning home — this time knowing it marked the end of his peacekeeping service as a military personnel.
Hailing from Lomanikoro Village in Rewa, with maternal links to Nakelo, Tailevu, Sergeant Aminiasi has served three TODs in Lebanon, four in Sinai, and one in Iraq.
Military life
Sergeant Aminiasi began his military career in 1987 as a young private before later serving as a personal waiter to the military commander at the time, Sitiveni Rabuka.
Since then, he said he has always looked forward to being called upon to serve his country, particularly in missions to the Middle East.
He closes this chapter of his life content with what the military has offered him over the years.
The RFMF, he said, took in a young man and trained him to become a skilled and brave soldier, providing crucial support in maintaining stability and peace.
Through the military, Sergeant Aminiasi has helped protect civilians, maintain security, and support humanitarian efforts overseas.
Although it was difficult leaving his family behind during deployments, he said that when the military calls, soldiers must respond immediately.
Throughout his career, Sergeant Aminiasi displayed patience, professionalism, and strong discipline — values he attributes to his military grounding.
“The military is my life. It has done so much for me as a person,” he said.
“I have been able to visit many countries because of the military. It has supported me and my family, put food on the table and has trained me to be a skilled soldier.”
UNAMI deployment
Sergeant Aminiasi returned home this week alongside fellow military personnel after completing one year and four months in Iraq.
He said he was grateful to return safely after serving in a war-torn country.
“I thank God for his protection upon my life, being away is always hard for us and our family but God has been a source of strength out there.”
“The deployment came with its challenges, as we deal with different groups every day and we always have to be extra careful when leaving our military camp.”
“You learn to deal with situations, especially maintaining stability and peace whether on patrol outside of the military camp or just liaising with civilians as things can change or escalate quickly.”
He expressed gratitude for the brave men and women from Fiji who dedicate their lives to serving the nation, highlighting the strong camaraderie among the troops.
Life outside the military
In 1997, Sergeant Aminiasi decided to explore his talent in catering. He resigned from the military and joined the tourism industry.
He became the first soldier to enter hotel catering after leaving the military.
“I worked in renowned resorts like Malolo Island Resort, Treasure Island, Vomo Island, Sheraton, Likuliku Island Resort and Intercontinental Resort.”
“I then joined the military again and went on tour last year. I was able to serve the current RFMF Commander.”
“I’m very content because I was able to serve military commanders when I started and when I completed my service.”
Retirement
As he nears retirement, Sergeant Aminiasi looks back with gratitude on what he has accomplished during his military career.
From starting as a private to rising through the ranks to become a sergeant, he thanked the military for trusting him as a vital first-line leader responsible for task execution, discipline, welfare, and training.
Following the welcoming ceremony for the UNAMI soldiers, Sergeant Aminiasi spent quality time with his family at their home in Kinoya.
Sergeant Aminiasi has completed his last tour of duty for the Republic of Military Forces this year. Picture: ANA MADIGIBULI
