Major Tevita Biudole fought hard to control his emotions when he took part in his first parade as a commander leading the Republic of Fiji Military Forces First Armed Detachment on Saturday at Albert Park in Suva.
The Ketei Village, Totoya native said retracing the steps taken by his father Rupeni Biudole 50 years ago at the same venue when Fiji was granted Independence on October 10, 1970, was a proud but humbling experience.
“My father was in the 1970 parade when he was a private at just 19 years of age,” Maj Biudole said.
“I don’t know if he ever would have dreamt that one day that one of his sons would take part or even lead a detachment 50 years later.”
Major Biudole said he had wanted to take part in the historic parade, even though his name was not on the original list of selected officers for the event.
“I started to pray about it and just told God about what it would mean for me and if it is His will, I will be a part of it.”
At the last minute, the 42-year-old said, he was pleasantly surprised when he was informed that he would participate and also lead a detachment.
“The memories of dad came in, and I just give God the glory. “Today (Saturday) I honour my father, it was because of him I wanted to be a soldier and I know he will be proud of me and all who continue this grand tradition.
“I thank him for the standards he set in my life, how he inspired me to wear the uniform and I do this to honour all the Fijians who have given their lives in service of this great country.”
Warrant Officer Class One Rupeni Biudole passed away in 2017.
