Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) recruit, Ratu Meli Oscar Damudamu, was accorded a military funeral at the Nasinu Cemetery yesterday.

Representatives of the RFMF led by the acting Commander, Rear Admiral Viliame Naupoto, friends, relatives and family members attended the funeral.

His parents and siblings sailed from his village – Nakasaleka, Kadavu, to farewell him. He was the second eldest son.

The 22-year-old, who joined the Republic of Fiji Military Forces in October this year for a 12- week basic recruitment course drowned last Tuesday, while trying to cross the Waidalice River during field training near Korovou, Tailevu.

His aunty, Titilia Tonawai said: “Meli was hardworking, loving and helpful person,” she said.

“He was excited about the passing out parade scheduled for December 23. Last Sunday he called his parents to inform them about the passing-out parade.”

She said Ratu Meli came to Suva last year and lived with his relatives after completing secondary school education at Kadavu Provincial High School.

He wanted to study and work to support his parents, Ms Tonawai said.

“He was pursuing a Diploma in Architecture from the Fiji National University before joining the RFMF.

“During the Fiji National University trimester two break, Meli worked as a security officer at TappooCity to collect money for his school fees.

 “While there he applied to join the RFMF because his dream was to work and help his parents. We are still shocked and still trying to come to terms with his death,” Ms Tonawai said.