A poignant ceremony took place on Remembrance Day at the Labasa Police Station, where the Fiji Police Force honored Constable Elenoa Gataialupe Penidigitakikinaqitokipapuaniukini, recognized for having the longest name in the force. The constable was laid to rest earlier this year in her home village of Tubou on Lakeba, Lau. Her family, including her sister, took part in the ceremony, placing a wreath at the memorial dedicated to fallen officers.
Constable Elenoa began her career in the Fiji Police Force on April 27, 2009, and served at various stations, including Lakeba and Nabua, before her final postings at the National Police Command and Coordination Centre and the Totogo Police Station.
The event was officiated by Acting Deputy Police Commissioner Aporosa Lutunauga, who emphasized the importance of remembering and honoring the dedicated service of officers like Constable Elenoa. The ceremony is part of a broader tradition within the Fiji Police Force to recognize the sacrifices made by its members, which includes regular commemorations for fallen officers.
This particular remembrance coincides with a time when the Fiji Police Force is preparing for its upcoming 150th Anniversary celebration, slated for October 10, 2024. The commitment shown by constables such as Elenoa and their families illustrates the underlying dedication that fuels the force’s mission.
The strength and resilience of the Fiji Police Force, as underscored by such tributes, reflect the enduring spirit of service and community commitment, ensuring that the legacies of those who came before continue to inspire future generations.