Firefighters from around Tongatapu are expected to gather at the Fua’amotu International Airport this evening to welcome one of their own with full funeral honours.
Their former CEO Lōfia Heimuli died in Australia on December 27.
Tonga Fire Service & Emergency has confirmed the firefighters and staff of the Service will conduct the welcoming services at the airport.
This would include a prayer service, carrying his flag-draped casket and firing of a 21 gun salute.
The procession will be led by fire trucks and a brass band performed by the firefighters.
It is understood Heimuli was holidaying in the south Pacific continent when he died.
He was expected to retire from his job in March 2019.
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.
