Boy, I am glad that these guys are getting recognized for their service in Iraq. Most of our supply convoys that supplied the sites I operated at, were done by Armor Group with these Fijian security contractors running the gun tubs. Hell, AG even transported me to a couple of my sites over there.
The other thing I wanted to say about the Fijians is that they are the nicest, coolest guys. I am thankful for their contribution in this war and they have represented their country well.
On a side note, my fondest memory of Fijians in Iraq, were them singing every night at the camps I was at. It was like they were singing the gospel or something and rejoicing that they lived that day. –Head Jundi
Fallen men honoured
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Update: 3:36PM Five Fijian families of civilian security contractors who were killed in Iraq were today presented with the Defence of Freedom Medals by the United States Government.
The medal presentation ceremony took place at US embassy in Suva honouring men who have been killed in Iraq over the past two years.
US Embassy Charg d’Affairs, Jeffrey Robertson acknowledged the presence of the families of Penaia Vakaotia; Viliame Rovutugaga; Alivereti Cereilagi; Josaia Seniasi and Vilisoni Gauna.
The deceased were contracted by an America-based security company Armor Group in Iraq to transport and protect Iraqi currency in the war-torn nation when they all died in separate incidents in Iraq during their employment with the company.
Defense of Freedom Medal is the civilian equivalent of the militarys Purple Heart, a medal given for serious injury or death suffered in times of war.
The Defense of Freedom Medal was first created to honour civilians/employees of Department of Defence injured or killed during the September 11th Terrorist attacks.