Maj.Gen.Peter Elwelu, the commander land forces has asked retired UPDF soldiers to be the ears and eyes of the army in their respective villages.
Maj.Gen.Elwelu made the remarks on Tuesday during a function to retire several officers and militants of the UPDF from active service of the army at the General Military headquarters in Bombo.
“Prepare for what lies ahead to make good life for yourselves during retirement,”Maj.Gen Elwelu who represented the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen David Muhoozi, asked.
“Continue protecting the security of the country even when not in uniform by being eyes and ears of the army in your respective communities.”
The Commander Land Forces in the UPDF advised soldiers who are still in active service to prepare for their families and themselves for a decent retirement into the civilian community and plan for their resources carefully.
Maj Gen Elwelu saluted the retiring officers for being courageous and patriotic and devoting their life to serve their country relentlessly adding that their service has greatly contributed to the peace and security the country is enjoying today.
Speaking on behalf of the retiring soldiers, Col John R. Kagwisa applauded the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs for creating enabling environment for the UPDF.
“We are very grateful and do promise to keep the flag of UPDF flying high,” Col Kagwisa said.
He applauded the soldiers’ families for keeping together and running as a unit during time of loneliness for the sake of their spouses to serve this country.
“Our children grew up missing their parental care” he added.
A total of 460 Officers and militants retired from active service of the UPDF.
The function was also attended by the Chief of Pensions and Gratuity in the UPDF Brig Metland Bitumbika, deputy chief of Personnel and Administration, Brig Sam Kakuru, directors and Senior Officers.
