Source: ZNA holds funeral parade for four accident victims – herald
Luthando Mapepa
Mutare Bureau
THE Zimbabwe National Army yesterday held a funeral parade for four soldiers who died last week when the military vehicle they were travelling in was involved in an accident along the Harare-Mutare Highway.
The quartet was stationed at 3 Infantry Brigade in Mutare.
Commander 3 Infantry Brigade, Brigadier-General Kenson Carlos Dube, led the army in paying tribute to the four soldiers – Warrant Officer Class One Philimon Chamisa, Warrant Officer Class Two Lydia Chindowa, Sergeant Wellington Wonder Muchinda and Lance Corporal Edmore Mupemhi.
In his remarks, Brig-Gen Dube said the ZNA had lost gallant soldiers who served the country with distinction and dedication, earning accolades and medals during their service.
He said although the majority of the deceased were not serving at 3 Infantry Brigade at the time of their deaths, they remained part of the ZNA family.
“We are all gathered here to pay our last respects to four gallant soldiers who served the Zimbabwe National Army with distinction,” he said.
“Although the majority of the deceased were not serving with 3 Infantry Brigade at the time of their deaths, in the military we are one big family.
“We can claim all of them as belonging to 3 Infantry Brigade, just as they belonged to the Zimbabwe National Army. To the four deceased I’m saying may their soul rest in peace.”
Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, who was among the mourners, said the province was saddened by the loss of the soldiers, particularly as the country held Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day commemorations on Monday and Tuesday.
“To lose one soldier is terrible, but when we talk about four, it is truly devastating.
“These are days when we are supposed to be celebrating, but we find ourselves mourning,” said Adv Mugadza.
He also expressed concern over road accidents, saying the latest tragedy occurred despite ongoing Government efforts to improve the country’s road infrastructure while also calling on drivers to exercise caution.
Adv Mugadza conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and encouraged them to find comfort in God during the difficult period.
The four soldiers are expected to be buried today at their respective homes.
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