Stamps honour 65 years of Fijian service in British Army

A commemorative stamp collection has been launched to honour 212 Fijian men who joined the British Army in 1961, marking 65 years of Fijian military service and the longstanding relationship between Fiji and the United Kingdom.

The stamps were launched by the British High Commission in partnership with Post Fiji, recognising the contributions and sacrifices of the original soldiers and the generations who followed.

Acting British High Commissioner to Fiji Stephen Lysaght said the collection was a tribute to the Fijians whose military service had strengthened ties between the two countries.

“For us in the UK, it's a chance to say thank you for all of the work, years of service and friendship that the original 212 and all those who followed them have given to the UK-Fiji relationship,” he said.

Mr Lysaght said the Fiji-UK military relationship extended beyond those currently serving, recognising the important role played by families of former Fijian servicemen and veterans in preserving the legacy of those who served in the British Armed Forces.

More than 2,200 Fijians serving

British Defence Adviser Commander Richard Greenwood Pell said more than 2,200 Fijians were currently serving in the British Armed Forces, most of them in the British Army.

He acknowledged the dedication, strong work ethic and companionship of Fijian personnel who had served alongside British soldiers over the years.

“Having served with Fijians over many years in the British forces, I find that Fijians are friendly, hardworking and great comrades,” Commander Pell said.

He said the relationship between the two countries continued through defence cooperation and training opportunities.

These included opportunities for Fijians to train in the United Kingdom and visits by British military personnel to Fiji to assist with training the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.

Honouring a lasting legacy

Mr Lysaght said the connection extended beyond those currently serving, with veterans and their families continuing to play an important role in maintaining the relationship.

He said the stamp launch marked the beginning of a month of engagement activities involving veterans, their families and communities across Fiji.

The commemorative stamps serve as a lasting tribute to the original 212 soldiers and the generations of Fijians who have contributed to the British Armed Forces over the past 65 years.