President pays tribute to our defence forces |25 November 2014

President James Michel, who is also the commander-in-chief of the Seychelles People’s Defence Forces (SPDF), has paid tribute to all men and women in the military for their “invaluable service” to the nation.

This comes in President Michel’s message on the occasion of Defence Forces Day today.
The full text of President Michel’s message reads:

“The Seychellois nation dedicates November 25 to our defence forces, in recognition of the invaluable service of our courageous men and women in the military. They risk their lives so we may live and develop in peace, unity and harmony. It is also a day in memory of those who have fallen in the line of duty.

“On Defence Forces Day I join the government and people of Seychelles in paying tribute to the noble work they are doing to protect our sovereignty, territorial integrity and natural resources. We owe them all our gratitude.

“Faced with mighty challenges, they have responded with great skill, courage and honour. This is why we are very proud of them.
“Defence Forces Day is, above all, a celebration of victories, of all the achievements, big and small, of our military and of our country. It was on November 25, 1981 when our nascent military repelled a mercenary attack from overseas. They responded with professionalism. A huge victory, indeed! Our Seychellois nation is today stronger, better off, more determined. We have secured the space, freedom, natural assets and capacity to continue our rapid progress of a middle-income country.

“We may be small, but we have proven that we are able to successfully take on difficult tasks and challenges. We are fulfilling our obligations and responsibilities in battling piracy in the Indian Ocean. We are at the forefront in the fight against piracy. We have to continue winning this war. Our defence forces are battle-hardened, more determined and better prepared for the task of guarding our country and our achievements. We are a small country with limited resources, but our determination and courage have won us the respect of the world. Our valiant men and women in uniform emerge as great examples of valour, determination and competence. We have demonstrated that when we are united in our missions and in our vision, we achieve great victories.

“Regional and global security issues remind us that our defence forces must remain vigilant at all times, prepared for any eventuality. I take this occasion to reassure the nation that the modernisation of our defence forces continues. At the same time we always take the welfare of the military personnel seriously.

In this month also dedicated to the value of gratitude, the entire Seychellois nation once again takes the opportunity to show appreciation for the demanding, but excellent work our defence forces are doing.

“Today we salute our men and women in the military for their sacrifices. It is also a day to show solidarity with their families. We also remember all our fallen Seychellois, and those injured in all wars.

“I wish all members of the military a happy Defence Forces Day. May God watch over them and protect our nation from harm.”