Zambia: Zambia Air Force Former Service and Deputy Service Chiefs assembled at the house of late Lt Gen Ronnie Shikapwasha (Rtd). to pay tribute on Wednesday, 18 January.
Deputy Chief said they gathered at his house not to mourn but to celebrate the life and legacy of a true military and national leader.
He also said, “The atmosphere of the house was thick, and the family was sad. Obviously, they lost their closed one.”
Moreover, the group, representing all Services, arrived at the house of mourning with a shared purpose – to offer condolences to the grieving family of Lt Gen Shikapwasha (RTD), a revered figure in Zambia’s military history.
As they arrived at the funeral house, their sombre expressions spoke volumes about the deep bond that exists among those who have served together. Lt Gen Shikapwasha’s impact on the military community was tangible, and the silent unity of the former Service Chiefs underscored the profound loss felt by all.
An emotional highlight of the gathering was when the former Service and Deputy Service Chiefs, with a sense of reverence, took turns to sign a book of condolences. Each signature symbolized not just a farewell, but probably an endorsement to the values and principles that Lt Gen Shikapwasha had exemplified throughout his military and national career.
He stated that when they left the house, they left with a lot of memories of the retired chief who had left an indelible mark on the Zambia Air Force, Defence Force and Nation.
The Former Commanders’ gathering served as a poignant reminder that even in the face of loss, the spirit of unity and brotherhood among those who served together remains unbroken.
The former Service Chiefs visited the house of mourning on Wednesday, 17 January 2024, while the former Deputy Service Chiefs went to pay their tributes today, Thursday, 18 January 2024.
Moreover, all Zambia Air Force wished him Rest in Peace to the General Commander.