Soldiers farewell: Fīnau’s coffin carried by comrades

It was a fitting send off for a soldier who had promised to give his life for Tonga and continue to defend the country.

His coffin was surrounded by military officials led by the Commander of His Majesty’s Armed Forces Lord Fielakepa, along with HSH Prince Tuʻipelehake and hundreds of mourners who gathered to pay their respects  to Sioeli ʻAholelei Finau at the church where his funeral was held today.

The former Royal Marine Cadet Officer’s coffin was carried by his comrades and loaded it onto a military truck before it was taken to its resting place at Maluamapa Cemetery.

Fīnau, 24, was stabbed to death during a street brawl in Nukuʻalofa on July 11. A 25-year-old suspect from Kolofoʻou was arrested and was in Police custody in relation to Fīnau’s death.

Mourners stood in silent as the military truck carrying their loved one passed while relatives wept as they followed the coffin into the cemetary, and supported each other as they walked along.

His family described his funeral and farewell as full of military honours in emotional but dignified services.

About The Author

Sometimes when a business is growing, it needs a little help.

Right now Kaniva News provides a free, politically independent, bilingual news service for readers around the world that is absolutely unique. We are the largest New Zealand-based Tongan news service, and our stories reach Tongans  wherever they are round the world. But as we grow, there are increased demands on Kaniva News for translation into Tongan on our social media accounts and for the costs associated with expansion. We believe it is important for Tongans to have their own voice and for Tongans to preserve their language, customs and heritage. That is something to which we are strongly committed. That’s why we are asking you to consider sponsoring our work and helping to preserve a uniquely Tongan point of view for our readers and listeners.

spot_imgspot_imgspot_imgspot_img

Latest news

Related news