Zambia: The Zambia Air Force Commander has acknowledged the exceptional work of the men and women in uniform in the Air Force, adding that everyone across all trades and branches demonstrated excellence in the areas of responsibility.
These remarks were made in speeches read on behalf of the ZAF Commander on Friday, 01 December, across several messes for Warrant Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers.
Lt Gen Barry highlighted several accomplishments, such as kitting, improved work conditions and environments, remunerations, claims, work infrastructure development, office space and equipment, service support incentives, successful joint exercises and humanitarian and the SADC mission in the Cabo Delgado Province in Mozambique.
Lt. Gen Barry said the remarkable advancements in combat capabilities and the commitment to training and readiness enable the Air Force to score some of the gains. He acknowledged that through resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to service and duty, the true strength of the Air Force shined on its challenges.
Lt. Gen Barry added, “Our government has been resolute in supporting our Air Force, and the commitment to national security guides us, the preservation of peace and the protection of our values and way of life.
Our commitment to duty transcends political affiliations and ideologies. As members of the Air Force, we operate in a realm where our allegiance is to the Commander-In-Chief, the people of Zambia and the principles that define us. Let us remain steadfast in our dedication to staying away from the political arena. Our strength lies in our unity, and by avoiding political entanglements, we preserve the integrity and impartiality that are essential to our mission. Our government recognizes the need for a strong and combat-capable Air Force. We are also fortunate to have leaders who prioritize the well-being of our servicemen and women under the new Dawn Government of Mr President, the Commander-In-Chief of the Defence Force, Hakainde Hichilema.”
He reminded members of the Warrant Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers’ mess to always align and work within the vision of the Air Force as well as continuously strive to be skilful in the execution of tasks, missions and responsibilities in meeting the nation’s expectations. He said this was through defending and safeguarding the sovereignty of the nation, ensuring national security and freedom of its people.
The Commander further underscored the importance of discipline, resilience, commitment, patriotism, financial integrity, and physical well-being if the Air Force was going to remain combat-ready and capable.
Gen Barry also recognized the sacrifices made by families of the service personnel and the need for a healthy work-life balance.
“As we dedicate ourselves to the service of our nation, let us not forget the importance of national and family values. The sacrifices made by our loved ones deserve our acknowledgement, gratitude, and unwavering commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance and a sense of duty,” he observed.
He ended with a call for renewed dedication and a promise to uphold the ideals of service before self as the Air Force opened another chapter in the new year.
Formation Commanders across all Air Force bases represented the ZAF Commander at their respective bases during the 2023 end-of-year military tradition.
Meanwhile, Chairmen for the various Mess Committees thanked Air Force Command for continuing to improve their welfare condition of service, renovating their messes as well and providing them with modern entertainment facilities, among other facilities.
They also thanked their members for their monetary contributions to host successful annual balls. The colourful event saw service personnel jive the night and relax in dance and merry.