South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Simon Deng
The governor of Jonglei state, Riek Gai Kok, has pledged to improve living conditions for the families of fallen heroes and to enhance the welfare of ex-servicemen who have served as active military personnel.
“We have a program focused on supporting the widows and families of fallen heroes, and we are also working to structure society so that these families will not suffer as a result of losing their loved ones,” said Kok during the celebration of the 42nd anniversary of the Sudan People Liberation Army (SPLA) held at Freedom Square in Bor, Jonglei state.
“Injury to one is injury to all. We feel their pain, and we will ensure that the memories of our fallen heroes live on,” he said.
Governor Kok praised the patriotic contributions of the Army and other organized forces, particularly those who lost their lives in the line of duty, to the sovereignty, unity, peace, and stability of South Sudan.
“For our country to reach the level we are at today, many sacrificed their lives. The individuals we honor today are those who put their lives on the line, and we have lost so many of them. It is only rational and reasonable that a day is set aside in their honor.”
Gen. Alfred Manyang, a veteran and senior army officer, emphasized that the celebration signifies the importance of commemorating the sacrifices made by the nation’s Armed Forces and those who paid the ultimate price for the unity of the country.
Manyang compared the price paid by the fallen heroes to the crucifixion of Lord Jesus, who sacrificed himself for the salvation of mankind.
Abraham Gum Makuach, the Commander of the 8th Infantry Division of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces, thanked the state administration for fostering improved relations between civilians and the army.
The Sudan People’s Liberation Army Day (SPLA Day) is an annual public event observed on May 16 to commemorate the nation’s fallen compatriots and to honor its living army veterans.
