The late Warrant Officer I Josevata Mokalou - A Loyal Soldier With A Proud Legacy

The late Warrant Officer I Josevata Mokalou has left behind a proud legacy for his family.

For many outside his family, the loyal soldier and loving husband, father and grandfather, is a shining ex­ample for many men.

His life’s story, told by his wife, Ane, is inspiring and uplifting. It is like a ray of sunshine at a time when we hear so many cases of domestic violence, physical, sexu­al and psychological abuse of women and children.

In a tribute to her late husband, killed in an alleged hit-and-run incident in Nadi, Ane spoke candidly about him.

“He was a loving husband and father to our three chil­dren and grandfather to our three grandchildren,” she said.

“In our entire 29 years of marriage he never raised his hands or voice on me and the children. He was gentle and humble. He was religious and fulfilled his family responsibilities.”

These are powerful words, a living testimony of a wom­an who has lived a happy and fulfilling life because of her husband.

Obviously the military discipline he gained during his Republic of Fiji Military Forces service and his commit­ment to his religious beliefs helped him to honour and respect his wife and children.

He belonged to a very special group of people who be­lieve in the sanctity of the family, in peace and non-vio­lence, in respecting women and children.

While they quietly live their lives, men who get public attention every now and then are those accused of do­mestic violence.

It creates a public perception that domestic violence appears to be running rampant in the country.

Ane’s story helps to give us a better perspective – that there are men out there setting a perfect example to their communities – but they rarely get the publicity they deserve.

Today, the Fiji Sun salutes Mr Mokalou for his exem­plary life and service and others like him who continue to be an example in their communities.

They give us hope that the best way to win this cam­paign against violence and abuse against women and children is to live by example.

Fiji will become an even better place if we follow the example of Mr Mokalou.

To his family, we say hang on and cherish his legacy.

To the rest of us, we say we can do it too.

Feedback: nemani.delaibatiki@fijisun.com.fj