My visit to the twin babies, whom I see future soldiers of Fiji, was a way of saying thank you to all those who helped them come into this world.

Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Commander Rear-Admiral Viliame Naupoto said this while visiting Akesa Kelenayatoka and her daughters, Salanieta Dikoila and Suliana Avikali, at Dreketilailai outside Labasa Town on Monday night.

The 26-year-old mother walked and swam across flooded roads and rivers during Cyclone Ana on January 31, 2021, to reach the Sukanaivalu Army Barracks at Vaturekuka in Labasa to deliver her babies.

Rear Admiral Naupoto said he was happy to know that the military officers braved all difficult conditions to help save the mother and babies.

“They were able to assist them in transportation from Vitandra to the camp and arrange for two medical officers to help in the delivery,” he said.

“It was not just the military effort; some who lived in that area assisted this family.”

While holding the babies (nickname Ana and Bina), he said, that it was a wonderful feeling to know how they made it into the world.

“I call them soldiers and I hope to see them soldiers in future,” he said.

“My visit to this family is a way to thank everyone who helped them to be safe during the natural disaster.”

Ms Kelenayatoka thanked Rear-Admiral Naupoto for not only visiting them, but also blessing them with groceries.

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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