90 Masaka soldiers retire
Apr 23, 2008
AFTER serving the army for 38 years, staff Sgt. Salim Jjingo, 54, could not hold back his tears on Monday, which marked his last day in service.
By Dismus Buregyeya
AFTER serving the army for 38 years, staff Sgt. Salim Jjingo, 54, could not hold back his tears on Monday, which marked his last day in service.
The scene caused a brief interruption of the colourful retirement ceremony of 96 UPDF officers of the Masaka-based Armoured Brigade and Field Engineering Regiment.
“I served the army under Idi Amin until today when I am officially retiring. It is a sad moment because soldiering was my life,†Jjingo said as he broke down into tears.
“But I am happy that I have left the army alive. I have accomplished my mission with flying colors, having restored peace to my nation.â€
The brigade commanding officer, Brig. James Mugira, thanked the retirees for their dedicated service.
“I feel sad to probably give my last speech as your commander. You have done a great job for the nation and made it a better place. You should be proud of having served in the UPDF.â€
Responding to concerns of retirees living with HIV/AIDS, who have been accessing ARVs in the barracks, Mugira said that they would continue to accessing the drugs in the health centres country-wide.
“For those who have left the army in good health, live responsibly to avoid catching HIV, because we may recall you to serve the nation any time,†he added.
The resident district commissioner, Bamusedde Bwambale, cautioned the soldiers against misusing their retirement packages.
“I know Masaka town and its suburbs are going to enter a festive season because of the money you have received. If you are not careful, you will end up going home empty-handed. Save the money for your future.â€
He also warned the retired army officers against being lured into criminal or rebel activities.
A total of 3231 UPDF officers from nine military centres countrywide have been retired, according to Lt Col Henry Mulindwa, the army personnel and administration officer. Maj. Paddy Ankunda, the army spokesman, attended.
AFTER serving the army for 38 years, staff Sgt. Salim Jjingo, 54, could not hold back his tears on Monday, which marked his last day in service.
The scene caused a brief interruption of the colourful retirement ceremony of 96 UPDF officers of the Masaka-based Armoured Brigade and Field Engineering Regiment.
“I served the army under Idi Amin until today when I am officially retiring. It is a sad moment because soldiering was my life,†Jjingo said as he broke down into tears.
“But I am happy that I have left the army alive. I have accomplished my mission with flying colors, having restored peace to my nation.â€
The brigade commanding officer, Brig. James Mugira, thanked the retirees for their dedicated service.
“I feel sad to probably give my last speech as your commander. You have done a great job for the nation and made it a better place. You should be proud of having served in the UPDF.â€
Responding to concerns of retirees living with HIV/AIDS, who have been accessing ARVs in the barracks, Mugira said that they would continue to accessing the drugs in the health centres country-wide.
“For those who have left the army in good health, live responsibly to avoid catching HIV, because we may recall you to serve the nation any time,†he added.
The resident district commissioner, Bamusedde Bwambale, cautioned the soldiers against misusing their retirement packages.
“I know Masaka town and its suburbs are going to enter a festive season because of the money you have received. If you are not careful, you will end up going home empty-handed. Save the money for your future.â€
He also warned the retired army officers against being lured into criminal or rebel activities.
A total of 3231 UPDF officers from nine military centres countrywide have been retired, according to Lt Col Henry Mulindwa, the army personnel and administration officer. Maj. Paddy Ankunda, the army spokesman, attended.