Lieutenant General Sam Okiding, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, praised retiring officers for their selfless dedication to serving the country over the years, particularly their outstanding contributions to the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces.
Speaking at the official send-off ceremony of 144 senior officers at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya, Lt Gen Okiding who represented the Chief of Defence Forces thanked the Commander-in-Chief for his efforts in bringing peace to the country, making retirement a “dream come true” for the forces.
He encouraged the retiring officers to view this phase of life positively, citing biblical references to Numbers 8:23-26 and Ecclesiastes 3:1 highlighting the importance of timing, and emphasizing that retirement is a blessing, not a punishment.
Lt Gen Okiding advised the retiring officers to invest wisely without rushing into any decisions. He cautioned them to be mindful and vigilant in their thinking, as their choices would significantly shape their future.
Brig Gen James Kinalwa, the Joint Staff Human Resource Management said that retirement allows rejuvenation of the army as the departure of seasoned and experienced officers paves the way for a new generation of young officers which ensures career progression and continuity within the force. Additionally, he highlighted that retirement facilitates a smooth transition for retiring personnel into civilian life.
On behalf of the retiring officers, Colonel James Wamala expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief for his unwavering dedication and tireless efforts in pursuing peace and stability in the country.
He reflected on the long and challenging journey they had shared, noting that they had reached the end of their service. He urged his fellow retirees to remain loyal and become exemplary ambassadors for the UPDF in civil-military relations.
Present were: the Commander Land Force, Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga; Commander Air Force, Lt Gen Charles Okidi; the Chief of Staff – Land Force, Brig Gen Michael Kabango, Generals, Senior Officers and Families of the retiring Officers.