Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has called for sustained national attention to the welfare of military veterans and former servicemen, emphasizing that the sacrifices of those who defended Sierra Leone must be recognised through meaningful support, lasting appreciation and respect for their contributions to national security.

The Vice President made the appeal on Thursday, 29 October 2026, at the Office of the Vice President in Freetown, where he officially launched activities marking the 2026 National Remembrance Day Commemoration.

Addressing the significance of the annual observance, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh said the occasion should encourage Sierra Leoneans not only to remember those who died in military service but also to reflect on the responsibilities owed to surviving veterans and personnel still serving in the armed forces.

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to the welfare of military personnel, acknowledging the difficulties some former servicemen face after retirement and the importance of ensuring that their contributions are not overlooked.

The Vice President used the occasion to pay tribute to Sierra Leoneans who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars, alongside those who died in subsequent conflicts and national tragedies.

Particular attention was given to the 18 soldiers who lost their lives during the attempted coup of November 2023. Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh honoured their memory, recognizing their sacrifices in the service of the state and the protection of national security.

His tribute brought renewed attention to the human cost of conflict and the importance of preserving peace in a country whose history has demonstrated the devastating consequences of violence and instability.

He stressed the need for Sierra Leoneans to remain united in protecting the country’s hard-earned peace, while recognizing the responsibilities carried by security personnel in maintaining national stability.

Beyond remembering the fallen, the Vice President acknowledged the important role played by the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) in international peacekeeping operations.

He commended Sierra Leonean soldiers who have served in missions abroad, recognizing their professionalism, dedication and contributions to international peace and security.

Their participation in peacekeeping efforts, he indicated, reflects Sierra Leone’s continuing commitment to international cooperation and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.

On the issue of veterans’ welfare, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh recognised that retirement from military service does not necessarily bring an end to the challenges faced by former soldiers.

He assured veterans and ex-servicemen that their concerns remain important to the Government, reaffirming its commitment to giving continued attention to their well-being.

The Vice President’s message also highlighted the broader responsibility of society to appreciate military service beyond official ceremonies. His remarks placed emphasis on the need to recognize veterans as citizens whose years of dedication deserve dignity, respect and national gratitude.

The 2026 National Remembrance Day Commemoration is expected to bring together serving military officers, retired personnel, veterans, Government officials and other stakeholders in activities designed to honour those who died while serving their country.

Additional commemorative events have been scheduled for 6 and 8 November 2026, providing opportunities for reflection on the sacrifices made by Sierra Leonean military personnel throughout history.

The observance will also serve as a reminder of the importance of national solidarity, peaceful coexistence and the continued protection of the country’s democratic institutions.

By placing veterans’ welfare at the centre of his address, Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh reinforced the message that national remembrance should extend beyond paying tribute to the dead to recognizing the needs and contributions of the living.

His appeal underscored a central theme of this year’s commemoration: a nation that honours its fallen heroes must equally recognize, respect and support those who have survived the demands of military service. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65857