The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) gathered at the Moi Air Base in Nairobi to solemnly commemorate the brave men and women who tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash on April 18, 2024, in Sindar, Elgeyo Marakwet County. This memorial service, attended by family, friends, and KDF personnel, marked the one-year anniversary of the devastating tragedy that claimed the lives of ten dedicated service members.
Among those honored was the late Gen Francis Ogolla, the Chief of the Defence Forces, whose passing left an irreplaceable void in both the military and the nation. Also remembered were Brigadier Swalleh Saidi, Colonel Duncan Keitany, Lieutenant Colonel David Sawe, Major George Magondu, Captain Mohammed Sora, Captain Hillary Litali, Senior Sergeant John Mureithi, Sergeant Cliphonce Omondi, and Sergeant Rose Nyawira.
The memorial not only paid tribute to their bravery and sacrifice but also celebrated the values they embodied—courage, dedication, and unwavering patriotism. KDF leaders led the service in a poignant ceremony that allowed the bereaved families and military colleagues to reflect on the legacies of those who had fallen.
During the interdenominational service, clergy offered comforting words, urging the families to find solace in faith and the enduring spirit of their loved ones. The message was clear: though the heroes had left the physical world, their spirits would live on.
Speaking on behalf of the bereaved families, Charles Magondu, father of Major George Magondu, expressed deep gratitude for the support they had received over the past year. He also highlighted the strength of the KDF family, which had stood firm in the face of such loss.
Col Kasaine Ole Kuruta, one of the two survivors of the crash, reflected on the emotional and physical journey of healing. “It has been 365 days that remind us of the privilege that we have to be alive,” he said, expressing heartfelt thanks to KDF leadership and medical teams for their unwavering support during his recovery.
This memorial service served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and unity of the KDF, as well as the enduring legacy of those who gave their lives in service to the nation.
