Fallen UPDF major lived an exemplary life - army

PIC: The Chief of Defence Forces Gen. David Muhoozi lays a wreath on the casket of fallen Maj. Alex Tinkamanyire. (Credit: Joseph Makumbi)

DEATH

KAMPALA - Fallen Uganda People's Defence Force officer Major Alex Tinkamanyire has been hailed as a dedicated, diligent and dependable military officer who lived an exemplary life.

Tinkamanyire collapsed Monday evening at a leisure and fitness centre in Mutungo, in the suburbs of the city.

The late Maj. Alex Tinkamanyire. (Credit: Joseph Makumbi)

Addressing hundreds of mourners at a funeral service for the departed officer on Wednesday at the Church of Resurrection in Bugolobi, Chief of Defence Forces Gen. David Muhoozi described him as an easily noticeable officer due to his good deeds in service.

"I had the honor and privilege to work with Major Tinka not only as CDF, but also as his commander in Kisangani (DR Congo). He was one of our commanders and because of his excellence, he was entrusted with a platoon," he said.

Muhoozi further said that Tinkamanyire has left behind a rich legacy despite his short life in the world.

He said the fallen armyman was one of those officers who had prospects of a promotion within the army owing to the ongoing military reforms.

The CDF went on to assure Tinkamanyire's family that he would ensure they receive their loved one's gratuity entitlements due to them.

The casket containing Tinkamanyire's body was wheeled into the church by army officers

Maureen Tinkamanyire laid a wreath on the coffin of her late husband. (Credit: Joseph Makumbi)

According to his family, Tinkamanyire collapsed on Monday at Canopy Sauna in Mutungo shortly after he had arrived for relaxation. He was rushed to Nakasero Hospital but the doctors on duty were unable to resuscitate him.

A post mortem report released to the bereaved family linked his death to heart complications.

Tinkamanyire's final day alive

Maureen Tinkasiimire said her husband had left home to report to duty feeling well. She also stated that for the last six years they had stayed together, he had never fallen sick.

"He last called me at around 2pm (local time) on that same Monday to check on us.

"At around 9pm, I received a a call from one of our close friends who informed me that my husband had collapsed at the sauna and that he had been rushed to Nakasero Hospital," said the widow.

"By the time we reached the hospital, he was no more."

Tinkamanyire is survived by Maureen and three children. He will be laid to rest Thursday in Katukuru, Mbarara district.