Barracks sticks to tradition

SOLDIERS at the Igam barracks near Lae had their traditional Christmas meal a week earlier than usual.
The meal which was served by their officers was also attended by the PNG Defence Force chief of operations Navy Capt Max Aleale.
The meal was served early to allow the soldiers to spend Christmas with their families.
Capt Aleale said it was military tradition for officers to serve the soldiers a meal at this time in recognition of their hard work throughout the year.
This was a way of saying thank you and showing love, respect and honuor within the force and among the colleagues Capt Aleale said.
At a Christmas luncheon for private soldiers at Igam last Friday, Capt Aleale highlighted the significance of serving luncheon for the junior comrades as one of the unique ways.
The luncheon is normally served on Christmas Eve each year.
However, the date was moved forward a week earlier to give ample time during the festive season for the soldiers to spend quality time with their families and friends.
“The festive period is the only time we have with our families and we have to make it become more meaningful and memorable one for our families and ourselves,” Capt Aleale said.
He said families were the backbone of the military personnel and it was important that the servicemen spend more time with their families.