AFL, Lonestar Cell MTN outline activities for 67th Armed Forces Day celebration 

By Lincoln G. Peters 

The Ministry of National Defense and the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) along with Lonestar Cell MTN have outlined a series of activities leading to this year’s Armed Forces Day Celebration.

The 67th Armed Forces Day celebration focuses on the role and responsibility of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) and its commitment to sustainable democracy in contemporary time.

This year’s Armed Forces Day celebration is proudly sponsored by Lonestar Cell MTN, Liberty Investment, and Jetty Trading Corporation as part of their corporate social responsibilities.

Armed Forces Day historically was legislated on February 11, 1957, with the sole intent of paying homage to the men and women of the Armed Forces of Liberia.

The AFL is making tireless sacrifices to maintain the security of the nation as well as the non-active-duty personnel and fallen heroes. 

Each year, the President of the Republic of Liberia and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Liberia, by Proclamation declares February 11 as “Armed Forces Day” to be observed as a National Holiday throughout the Republic.

The Proclamation directs all military and paramilitary organizations within the Republic to organize and execute appropriate programs in recognition of the Day.

This year Armed Forces Day will be hosted under the theme: “The Armed Forces Support to Democracy: The role and responsibility of the AFL.”  

The United Nations Resident Coordinator to Liberia, Madam Christine Umutoni, will serve as the Guest Speaker for the 67th Armed Forces Day. 

The official indoor ceremony will kick off Monday, 12 February 2024 at 0700hrs at the Barclay Training Center (BTC) in Monrovia. 

The ceremony will be graced by all National Security Services, including Armed Forces of Liberia, Liberia National Police, Liberia Immigration Service, Liberia National Fire Service, Liberia Custom Service, and Liberia Drugs Enforcement Agency.

Also, the Monrovia City Police, Liberia Seaport Police, Bureau of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Forestry Park Rangers, and Liberia Scout Association will form part of the parade at the BTC. 

Also, distinguished Service Order (DSO) will be awarded to the following personalities, Colonel TEVOEDJRE Djimon Dieudonne, Benin Army; Colonel DOKOUI- FOFO Andre, Benin Army; Late LIUETENANT COLONEL SOGLOHOUN MAX, Benin Army; and BRIGADIER GENERAL AARON JOHNSON (RETIRED), Armed Forces of Liberia.

Others are COLONEL ANTHONY F. NORPAH, (RETIRED), Armed Forces of Liberia, and COUNSELLOR FRANCES JOHNSON M. ALLISON. 

Addressing a major press conference over the weekend at the Ministry of National Defense, Director of Public Affairs Anthony D. Lander of the AFL and MOD said that the Parade will be reviewed by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Liberia. 

Accordingly, he stated that it will be graced by the presence of very imminent and distinguished traditional leaders, members of the Senate and House of Representatives, Diplomatic Corps, the Clergy, the Academia, Distinguished Liberian Citizens and Senior Officers of the AFL, retired and serving alike.

He pointed out that major General Paul D. Roger, Adjutant General of the Michigan National Guard will also grace the occasion. 

Mr. Lander indicated that the Armed Forces Day celebration has always been used as an opportunity for the public, foreign guests and dignitaries to be acquainted with activities regarding the development and progress of the AFL.