Staff Reporter
RESIDENTS of Omuthiya and surrounding areas are advised not to be alarmed by the movement of soldiers, armoured vehicles, or the sounds of artillery fire in the area, as these activities are part of the Namibian Defence Force’s (NDF) preparations for the upcoming 34th Heroes’ Day Commemoration, scheduled for Monday, 26 August.
“In the days leading up to the main event, residents of Omuthiya Town and surrounding areas will witness soldiers, armoured vehicles, and military aircraft in action. On the commemoration day itself, the community will experience the traditional military honour of a 21-gun salute. The public is advised not to be alarmed by the movement of military personnel and equipment or the sounds of artillery fire, as these are ceremonial activities intended to honour our nation’s history and the sacrifices made by its heroes and heroines,” the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs explained.
The ministry added that the NDF will play a pivotal ceremonial role in the commemoration, with Brigadier General Paulus Iipinge, the General Officer Commanding 26 Motorised Infantry Brigade, appointed as the parade commander.
“Soldiers at the brigade level are in high spirits, rehearsing in anticipation of the event. Given that this is General Iipinge’s third participation in national commemorative events as parade commander, he is expected to lead a grand and memorable Heroes’ Day parade. He has served as parade commander at several national events, including Heroes’ Day in the Kavango West Region in 2018, Heroes’ Day in the Hardap Region in 2022, the 25th Silver Jubilee Independence celebration, and the inauguration of His Excellency Dr Hage G. Geingob as the third President of Namibia in 2015,” the Defence Ministry added.
The ministry also revealed that the Namibian Air Force has designated Wing Commander FST Elifas, the Commanding Officer for the Air Defence Wing, to lead a flypast formation. His formation includes Wing Commander FNN Tobias, Squadron Leader ZL Claasen, Flight Officer TN Hangula, and Flight Officer F Haimbodi.
“The military ceremonial parade will also showcase the NDF’s drill prowess, free-fall (parachuting), and armoured vehicle displays. These activities are designed to honour both living and fallen national heroes and heroines, recognising their immense contributions to Namibia’s independence,” the Ministry of Defence added.
