The late Major Amelia Tadu was farewelled earlier today at the Tuvasu Hall, Queen Elizabeth Barracks.

Fijian President Major-General (Retired) Jioji Konrote was also present at the service.

Colonel Litea Seruiratu who is attending a year-long course at the Australian Defence College had her message read out during the service.

Colonel Seruiratu and the late Major Tadu were part of the first group of seven women to enlist in the Republic of Fiji Military Forces in 1988.

“Leah you have greatly inspired me. Going through tough times, you remained strong and composed. Only God knew the pain, the heartache, the loneliness, the rejection and the anxiety you were going through during those seasons. Comrades and friends often misunderstood you for your forthrightness.

“I salute you, for being a single mother of our four beautiful children, you nurtured and prepared them well spiritually, balancing it with a demanding career as a woman in a leadership role in the military.

“As I am preparing to present my thesis today, I would have messaged you to stand in agreement with me in prayers as we normally do, agreeing on our favourite Bible verse in Matthew 18: 19. I dedicate this in your memory.”

Major Tadu leaves behind her children Jason, Joey, Buna and Daniel.

Read more in your Fiji Sun newspaper tomorrow.