The Third Battalion Fiji Infantry Regiment (3FIR) of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces is to have a new leader.

He is Major Aseri Rokoura. Major Rokoura takes over as Commanding Officer (CO) from Lieutenant-Colonel Penioni Naliva tomorrow.

Lieutenant-Colonel Naliva said yesterday: “The handing over ceremony will be held this Wednesday at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks, Nabua and Major Aseri Rokoura will be taking over as CO 3FIR.”

While he did not disclose where he was going to, it is understood he is going to the Golan Heights to replace Commanding Officer Lieutenant-Colonel Patrick Sloan.

The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) media cell confirmed that a group was now training to go to the Golan Heights and said that Lieutenant-Colonel Naliva would be leading them.

The 3FIR was formed in 1982 as a Territorial Force (TF) unit to replace the 2nd Battalion following its deployment to Sinai. It became part of the regular force following the 1987 coups. It is the largest of the three regular battalions, and has two main responsibilities:

• Provide fresh troops for international deployment with the 1st and 2nd battalions.
• Maintaining the territorial defence of Fiji.

The 4th Battalion has responsibility for the defence of Nadi International Airport and the surrounding area.

The 5th Battalion is in charge of the defence of the area around Lautoka, Ba,Tavua, Vatukoula and Ra.

The 7th/8th Battalion was formed by the amalgamation of the 7th and 8th Battalions, and is responsible for the defence of the Vanua Levu region. Edited by Naisa Koroi

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