Sacrifice of soldier-peacekeeper is also his family’s

SEVEN MONTHS is a long time to be away from family and loved ones. That is how long the Philippine peacekeeping contingent was in Liberia to fulfill its mission. It was in Liberia to provide security—as part of the country’s commitment as a signatory to the United Nations Charter.

The Philippines has been sending troops to Liberia, Golan Heights and Haiti, troops who have been lauded and given medals for their contribution to peacekeeping. Again, Philippine peacekeepers were awarded medals upon their recent return in recognition of another job well done in a foreign land.

As Filipinos, we are doubly proud of these soldiers—first as guardians and defenders of our land; and second, as guardians and defenders even of other countries that need their help and expertise. We remember the devastation in Haiti, which was caused by a big quake a few years back and where some soldiers died in the line of duty.

Being away from loved ones is nothing new to soldiers’ families. I am a military wife myself but I am used to it already. A soldier’s sacrifice is also his family’s sacrifice.  But there is never regret, disappointment or remorse because being a soldier means service to God, country and people.

—MARIA ROSA B. MIJARES,

mariarosamijares@

yahoo.com.ph