Fijian Graduate Makes History

Joining the Royal Fiji Military Force Naval Division for Ensign Adrian Narayan was a dream come true.

Being the first Fijian to graduate from the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland on May 25 was the icing on the cake for his dream career.

He enlisted with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces in 2019. Following his graduation, he hopes to contribute to modernising and streamlining the Fiji Navy.

The 27-year-old is from Martintar in Nadi.

He attended Nadi Airport School, Sadhu Sangam Kuppuswamy Memorial College and the University of the South Pacific to study mechanical engineering.

However, fate changed his course, and in April 2019, he joined the Fiji Navy.

"I always wanted to serve the people, and I could not find or think of any other way to do that but to join the military," he said.

"I will return home and continue to serve as an Ensign. I dedicate this to my parents, Abhinesh and Pravina Narayan."

The eldest of two siblings said his pathway was brighter because the navy was his niche.

"When I go home, I am not too sure what my next assignment will be, but depending on that, if I have the time, I will probably finish my studies at USP."

One of his childhood friends, Richard Rueben Lal of Savusavu, said, "Personally, this is a proud moment for me as one of my very close friends, who over the years became family."

"The people of Nadi and Fiji, including close ones like us, are looking forward to seeing him serve our country in the RFMF naval division after almost five years of sacrifice, training,

and dedication."

Mr Lal said the programme Narayan entered was specifically for those preparing to enter the Navy, Army, Air Force, and Merchant Marine academies.

"God bless you, Adrian. Let us all celebrate and give tribute to this great achievement of an individual with Fiji at heart. History has been made. "

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