The event, was an inspiring live program on Instagram with the objectives of giving clarity to the society on the personality of the military, their importance in the society; and encourage the general public to cooperate and stand in solidarity with the Military, its’ Fallen Heroes and their families especially their Children left behind.
The host being the Executive Director of Heroes Dreams Alive (HDA) Foundation, Ms. Olatayo Emmanuel, introduced the topic “Guardians of Unity: Honouring Sacrifice, Fostering Collaboration” made welcome the first speaker for day one of the event, Major T.B. Adams who spoke on the reality of the commitment the Military men and women in service, their passion and the sacrifices they make especially in active service.
Introducing the next speaker, Mrs Morenike G. Henry (Rtd.) the National Director of Corporate Affairs at the Nigerian Legion recounted her experience as a female military officer, being amongst the first women to triumphantly be accepted into the military despite her gender. Switching careers, she moved to the UK where she discovered her passion for caring and advocating for veterans and the families of fallen heroes left behind.
The last speaker for the program, Mrs M. Ifeoma Oloye, a widow of a fallen hero gave personal insights of the difficulties, shared sacrifice in being a spouse to a military officer and the reality of losing such loved one, the journey of being a widow and acting in both capacities for the children she’s been left alone to cater for. She also made remarks on the inspiring life and mentoring her late husband lived serving as a military officer.
Through the perspective of each of the phenomenal speakers hosted on the program, the importance of HDA’s vision and mission was properly communicated and appreciated. Harsh realities were realised, tears shedded but in all, the admirable story of courageously serving in one’s country’s armed forces was appreciated.