ZAF stages spectacular display at commissioning ceremony

THURSDAY, was a memorable day for the Zambia Air Force (ZAF) course no.47 officers who were commissioned in Livingstone..

As they stood in 20 squadrons, dressed in their distinctive dark cobalt blue suits with a white belt fastened around their waists and a cap resembling that of bwana Jombe, the ZAF officers stood ready to be commissioned.

The stern look of sheer discipline and focus on the faces of the 472 officers embodied the force’s motto of “Defend and Support”, the unanimous shouts of “sir” and “thank you sir” commanded attention from government, military officials and civilians alike who were present.

The sun was a natural spot light that not only made their shiny black shoes sparkle but also put them as the center of attention on Livingstone’s air base grounds for their family and friends who sat in tents with pride.

Chants, cheers and sounds of ululations made rounds from the officers’ support systems as they could barely wait to embrace their beloved air men and women with hugs of congratulations.

With flowers in hand and tears in eyes, family and friends had to hold their excitement for a little while longer as the President of Zambia also the Commander in Chief of the defense forces addressed the officers.

President Hichilema congratulated course no.47 on successfully completing their training through which unmatched stamina and dedication was exhibited.

The commander commanded the officers to embody discipline and defend the country against internal and external threats.

He also directed that the curriculum of all Armed and Security forces be enhanced to include national unity and equality as a subject.

“Yours (course no.47) is to pull the country together as you defend it.”

“Going forward, ZAF commander, Army Commander, National service commander, Correctional Services, Zambia Police, we must enhance our course curriculum to include aspects of national unity to our forces so that these young people will be our first line of defense to keep our country united.” He directed.

And ZAF commander Lt. Gen. Oscar Nyoni lectured the officers on parade to utilise professionalism in their exercise of duty and put service before self.

“Any deviations from these standards will result in swift action including possible dismissal as experienced by some of your colleagues during training,” he warned.

After the official commissioning of the officers, the President bestowed air wings on 16 of the officers to be part of the air crew.

A mighty loud shout of command to the officers led them to form two files in a slow march salute passing the commander in chief while the brass band played a ceremonial tune.

Like a hen covers her chicks under her wings, emotional mothers throw their hands around their children (now commissioned officers) as if welcoming them back home after years of absence.

As other parents gifted their children with roses and mug cups, one mother held a bible in one hand and placed the other on her son’s head who knelt before her, blessing him in the presence of people.

During the exchange of congratulations and thank you(s), the Air Force went in full action mode, treating the president and other dignatories to a spectacular showcase of profound ariel maneuvers.

Air men using the K8 trainer jet depicted high class skill and precision, drawing the number 8 in the sky and leaving up to their name (air men).

Four officers threw themselves from the plane which was 10,000 feet high from the ground and landed safely, with parachutes triggering a “wow” exclamation from an amused crowd.

The 2024 course no.47 commissioned officers stands as the high number of officers commissioned by the air force in its history this far.

In its dedication to providing air protection against internal and external threats, the Zambia Air Force remains commited to ensuring a secure environment for national development.

By Elesani Phiri

Kalemba June 1, 2024