The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Air Force has honoured 56 senior and junior officers who served in various Air Force units and formations following their official retirement from active service earlier this month.
The officers were honoured during a farewell ceremony held at Air Force Headquarters in Entebbe, where the Commander Air Force, Lieutenant General Charles Okidi, commended them for their dedicated service to the country.
Lt Gen Okidi urged the retirees to become good ambassadors of the UPDF, engage in productive activities and make good use of government programmes designed to support them after retirement.
“Retire with pride and always defend our core values,” Lt Gen Okidi said.
He cautioned the retirees against reckless lifestyles and encouraged them to reassess their financial habits, particularly by distinguishing between their needs and wants.
Lt Gen Okidi also recognised the contribution of spouses, thanking them for standing with the officers throughout their military careers.
“We recognise and thank our spouses for standing with us through this noble journey,” he said.
The Chief of Staff Air Force, Brigadier General James Itungo, thanked the retirees for their dedicated service and for giving their best during their years in the UPDF.
Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Colonel Patrick Mutome pledged that the retirees would lead humble and productive lives and continue contributing to the country’s economic development.
Present were the Commander Ground-Based Air Defence, Brig Gen Freeman Mugabe, Senior and Junior Officers.
