President Koroma Launches 2014 Poppy Week

By State House Communications Unit

President Ernest Bai Koroma on Tuesday 28th October launched the 2014 Remembrance Day ceremonies at State House.

The poppy week is a global event commemorated in memory of soldiers that fought and died during the first and second world wars.

The president noted that this year’s commemoration is not a normal one as the country is right in the middle of a big fight against the horrific Ebola virus disease (EVD), and described the current state of affairs as a trying moment in the country’s history. 

In commending the efforts of the soldiers, President Koroma stated that despite the current crisis they still deserve to be remembered because of their supreme sacrifice for universal peace, democracy, during the rebel war and the pivotal role currently being played in peacekeeping missions to promote democracy in other African countries. He noted that their commitment has been a source of motivation and inspiration for Sierra Leoneans.

President Koroma lauded the engagement of the military in the fight against Ebola, whilst noting that their intellect, physical fitness and commitment have been fully utilized. “This is a very impressive contribution,” he said. The Commander-In-Chief further applauded the involvement of the Ex-servicemen in the fight against Ebola as it has shown that Sierra Leoneans are still motivated to return the country to normalcy.

The chairman Planning Committee Harris James assured President Koroma of their continued commitment and loyalty as the primary security agency to the state in fighting and winning the war against EVD. He said that this year’s celebrations will be done in low key amid the ongoing fight to contain the dreadful Ebola outbreak.