From the very nascent days of this nation, the UAE has forged an independent path, willing to help others living under duress, assisting those in humanitarian need, serving the international community in the causes of justice and peace. It is a noble and worthy pursuit, but one that has a price to pay. And from the earliest days of this nation, there have been brave men and women who wear the uniforms of their motherland with pride, and who have paid the highest price for their service and duty.
The deaths in Yemen of four brave members of the UAE Armed Forces shows once again that those who serve our leaders and protect the freedoms this nation enjoys, are willing to endure and lay down their lives in the noble calling of justice and duty. They join a roll call of martyrs who will never be forgotten, will always be cherished and will live on in the chapters of this nation’s history and those yet to be written. Words here can never console the pain felt by the fathers and mothers, brothers, sisters, wives and children of those who laid down their lives in the sacrifice and service of the UAE. To the families of Captain Ahmad Khalifa Al Beloushi from Al Ain; First Lieutenant Pilot Jasem Saleh Al Za’abi, from Ras Al Khaimah; Warrant Officer Mohammad Saeed Al Hassani, from Fujairah; and Warrant Officer Samir Mohammad Murad Abu Bakr Al Beloushi, from Ajman, this nation solemnly pledges to honour their memory, duty and service.
The UAE has never shirked from its duties and responsibilities and is engaged in Yemen to restore the legitimate government of President Abd Rabbo Mansour Hadi. It is a brittle land, one thrown into an abyss of misery, humanitarian strife and violence. Yet the UAE and all who serve this nation there can take solace from knowing that they act with the blessings of the United Nations Security Council; that they are part of an international mission led by Saudi Arabia to restore justice and hope; and that our Arab brothers in Yemen will always have our support and unity.
Throughout our short history, the UAE has proven to be resilient, building a future on the strength and unity of its people. These martyrs embody the best of this land, its youth, its promise, its willingness to aid and assist, and its quest for peace. The martyrs died honouring the principles of our founding fathers; their sacrifice will be eternally remembered.
