By Antynet Ford
The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has announced the postponement of the Late Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla’s memorial service.
In a statement shared via their official social media pages, KDF said the memorial service, scheduled for Friday, April 26, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex has been postponed and a new date will be announced later.
“Following the overwhelming support and state burial of General Francis Ogolla, the memorial service scheduled for Friday 26, April 2024 at the Ulinzi Sports Complex – Lang’ata is now postponed. A memorial service will be anounced at a later date.” The statement read in part.
They thanked everyone who mourned the general’s demise and celebrated him.
“We also recognize the presence of the First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto and Mrs Dorcas Rigathi, as well as the participation and invaluable support of the National Government, Parliament, political leaders, Judiciary, county governments of both Nairobi and Siaya county, Defence Chiefs/Service Commanders from allied nations, officers and service members of Kenya’s security sector, members of the diplomatic corps, the church, members of the general public, East African Community and the international community.” KDF added.
They also encouraged Kenyans to continue praying for the family of Ogolla and other gallant military soldiers who perished alongside him.
Ogolla who perished in a chopper crash on Thursday, April 18, 2024, was laid to rest on Sunday, April 21, 2024.
The general was buried without a casket at his home in Ng’iya, Siaya County, as per his wishes.
His final rites at the gravesite included three symbolic ceremonies
The first ceremony was the ‘reveille’ a military wake-up call that signals the beginning of a new day. It is played using a trumpet, drum, fife or bagpipes.
The second ceremony was the ‘last post’, a tune played to honour a soldier’s service. It signifies the end of the military duty.
The late general was also accorded a 19-gun salute which is meant to recognise his stint in the military.