A Platoon plus strength from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces departed Nadi this morning (Saturday 22 January) for Brisbane, Australia enroute to Tonga to conduct humantarian and rehabilitation taskings following the volcanic eruptions which occurred in the island nation late last week.
The team consisted mostly of engineers and medics is led by Major Jiuta Tabakisuva Baleisolomoni and assisted by Captain Ratu Viliame Kubunavolivoli both from the Engineers Regiment.
Speaking to the troops before their departure, the Commander RFMF Major-General (Maj-Gen) Jone Kalouniwai said that the humanitarian and rehabilitation tasking would demand teamwork in order to accomplish the mission.
Maj-Gen Kalouniwai also acknowledged the continued assistance of the Australian Government through the Australian Defence Force which has made it possible for the RFMF to be part of the humanitarian deployment to Tonga.
Also at the airport to farewell, the troops were the Australian High Commissioner Mr John Feakes and the Australia Defence Advisor Colonel Kane Wright.
The troops have all undergone covid-19 test protocols before their departure.
