The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Air Force has honoured 56 senior and junior officers following their official discharge from active military service.
The Air Force leadership celebrated the retirees during a formal farewell ceremony held at the Air Force Headquarters in Entebbe.
Commander Air Force, Lieutenant General Charles Okidi, commended the officers for their years of distinguished service and national defense.
“Retire with pride and always defend our core values,” Lt Gen Okidi told the departing personnel.
Lt Gen Okidi urged the retirees to serve as positive ambassadors of the UPDF in civilian life and to actively tap into government wealth-creation initiatives to build productive livelihoods.
He also cautioned the former servicemen against financial recklessness, advising them to manage their retirement packages prudently by distinguishing between needs and wants.
Lt Gen Okidi recognized the sacrifices of military families, expressing gratitude to the spouses for supporting the officers throughout their military tours of duty.
“We recognise and thank our spouses for standing with us through this noble journey,” Lt Gen Okidi said.
Brigadier General James Itungo, Chief of Staff Air Force, applauded the cohort for their dedicated contribution to safeguarding Uganda’s airspace.
Speaking on behalf of the retiring officers, Colonel Patrick Mutome affirmed that the cohort will uphold discipline and support socio-economic development within their host communities.
The send-off ceremony drew senior defense officials, including Commander Ground-Based Air Defence Brig Gen Freeman Mugabe, along with various senior and junior air force officers.
