United by blood, bound by duty, cousins return from sacrificial mission

From shared family roots to a shared call of duty, three cousins stood side by side today as they returned home safely after more than a year on a United Nations peacekeeping mission in Iraq.

Tomasi Duikoro, Kereni Sorowaqani, and Avinesh Naicker, whose mothers are sisters, were among 165 soldiers and officers welcomed home during the official homecoming ceremony for the First Battalion, Fiji Infantry Regiment at Albert Park in Suva.

Their return marked not only the end of a demanding mission but also a moment of relief for a family that waited, prayed, and hoped together.

For Sergeant Avinesh Naicker, the deployment was his first overseas mission in his 12 years pf service with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.

“It was a great honour for me to serve,” he said. “There were many trials, but I thank God for His protection and grace upon my life.”

Spending one year and four months away from home tested his strength. While being far from his family was difficult, their constant support helped him cope.

“Talking to my family encouraged me a lot,” Sergeant Naicker said. “My parents always advised me and kept me strong during hard times.”

The cousins’ work in Iraq focused primarily on peacekeeping duties within United Nations compounds.

“During our time, it was about peacekeeping,” Sergeant Naicker explained.

“We followed security protocols and made sure everything was in order.”

For Sergeant Kereni Sorowaqani, the mission carried a heavier personal sacrifice. As a single mother, leaving her child behind was the hardest challenge she faced.

“It was very painful to be away from my child,” she said. “There were days I felt emotional, but I stayed strong.”

She noted that her child gave her the courage to continue. “I want my child to be proud of me,” Sergeant Sorowaqani said.

“This mission taught me that even as a single mother, I can serve my country with strength and faith.”

With Christmas just days away, the cousins are thankful to be home.

“I missed Christmas last year,” Sergeant Sorowaqani said. “This year, I’m grateful to spend it with my family.”

From shared roots to a shared mission, the safe return of these three cousins stands as a powerful story of family, sacrifice, and service to the nation.