The President of the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, today officiated at the Special Investiture Ceremony for the 50th Anniversary Commemorative Medal of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Naval Division, held at the State House.
The ceremony marked a historic milestone, celebrating five decades of dedicated service by the Republic of Fiji Navy and recognising the outstanding contributions of personnel—past and present—to the nation’s maritime security and sovereignty.
President Lalabalavu emphasised that the new commemorative medal honours the unwavering commitment of all personnel who have shaped the Fiji Navy into a key pillar of national defence.
“The Fiji Navy has a proud and enduring legacy of safeguarding our beloved nation’s sovereignty, maritime interests, and regional security. From its humble beginnings to its current capabilities, the Fiji Navy remains a cornerstone of our defence and testament to Fiji’s commitment to peace and stability in the Pacific.”
He further underscored the Navy’s vital role in regional diplomacy.
“In today’s uncertain geo-political climate, our Navy is essential in maintaining the Ocean of Peace, the foundation of our Foreign Policy White Paper, approved by Cabinet and tabled in Parliament last year by the Honourable Prime Minister.”
President Ratu Naiqama also acknowledged Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s leadership in promoting the Ocean of Peace for potential declaration by Pacific Leaders at their upcoming meeting in the Solomon Islands.
Reflecting on Fiji’s naval history, the President stated following the demobilisation of the Fiji Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve in 1959, Fiji was left without a naval force.
“As the Royal Navy withdrew from the region, our newly independent nation faced increasing maritime threats—from illegal fishing to smuggling—necessitating a dedicated enforcement presence.”
The development of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in 1973 further underscored the need for a sovereign maritime force.
It was under the visionary leadership of the late Turaga na Tui Nayau, Prime Minister and President Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, that the Fiji Navy was formally established on 25 July 1975 under the Royal Fiji Military Forces (Cap. 81), marking the birth of the Naval Squadron.
From its inception, the Navy has evolved from a modest coastal patrol unit into a professional maritime force.
This transformation was driven by pioneering leaders such as the late Colonel Paul Manueli and Commander Stanley Brown, who secured Fiji’s first naval vessels—three ex-US minesweepers—and laid the foundation for training and recruitment.
What began with 70 trailblazers has grown into a formidable force of over 500 men and women. Many have moved on to serve with distinction in both military and civilian capacities.
“I am proud to note that the Republic of Fiji Navy plays a vital role in protecting Fiji’s vast maritime territory, combating illegal fishing, and promoting marine conservation,” the President stated.
“It is also key to the Government’s disaster response and humanitarian missions, particularly during cyclones and emergencies. Our naval personnel also contribute to international peacekeeping, enhancing Fiji’s global standing.”
He also acknowledged the enduring support of Fiji’s international partners and stakeholders in strengthening the Naval Division.
“We honour the valour and dedication of Naval Officers who are no longer with us. Their contributions continue to shape the Navy’s success. This ceremony is also dedicated to their memory and to their families.”
The President recognised the Navy’s success as the result of committed leadership, forward-thinking commanding officers, and strategic policymakers who ensured it remains a capable and respected force.
“It is my honour to conduct today’s Special Investiture of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Naval Division 50th Anniversary Commemorative Medal into the Order of Fiji, as Chancellor of the Order.”
The following individuals were honoured for their exceptional service:
Commander David Andrew Greve Lane: Enlisted with the RFMF in 1970; served with distinction in both infantry and naval services, at national and international levels. Commander Lane was the second Commander of the Fiji Navy after the late Commander Stanely Brown.
The President as Chancellor of the Order of Fiji, with the concurrence of the members of the College of Honour also bestowed upon Commander Lane the 25th Anniversary of Independence Medal and the highest honor in the Order of Fiji, the Companion of the Order of Fiji (Military Division) for eminent services in duties of great responsibility.
Together with the late and first Commander of the Fiji Navy, Commander Stanley Brown, Commander Lane was one of the first Officers to establish and build the Fiji Naval Squadron in its formative years, setting the foundation of what is today the Fiji Navy.
Amongst his numerous contributions to the nation, his leadership and service as second-in-command, were integral to the strength of the naval leadership team.
He was also instrumental in the setup of the naval operation doctrines and modes of operation, readiness, standard operating procedures, staffing, administrative, and logistical arrangements.
Commander (Ret’d) Semi Tuleca Koroilavesau: Joined the Navy on 4 January 1976 as a Seaman Officer; served as Commanding Officer of RFNS Lautoka; former Minister for Fisheries; current Vice President of the Naval Association.
Commander (Ret’d) Joeli Ratulevu Cawaki: Joined on 23 December 1985; served as Chief of Navy; later appointed Commissioner Western and Member of Parliament; currently CEO of the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji.
Commander Vosawale: Joined in 1987 as a Seaman Officer following service with the Marine Department; currently Navy Support Commander.
Captain Ratu Lepani Vaniqi: Joined on 14 December 1992 as a Logistics Officer; now Director Finance and Logistics Acquisition at RFMF Headquarters.
Commodore Humphery Tawake: Joined in 1990 as a Seaman Officer; rose to Chief of Navy; appointed Deputy Commander RFMF in 2014.
Brigadier General Sapenafa Motufaga: Joined the RFMF in 1988; currently Chief of Staff at RFMF Headquarters.
Captain (Navy) (Ret’d) Timoci Lesikivatukoula Natuva joined the Fiji Navy on 29th December 1976 as a Seaman Officer.
He served in a number of appointments before his appointment as Commander Fiji Navy.
Captain Natuva then transferred to the RFMF Headquarters where he was later appointed Commanding Officer Logistics Support Unit.
He is a former Parliamentarian, having served as the Minister for Immigration, National Security and Defence in 2014.
Warrant Officer Class 1 Isireli Uluinakubou joined the RFMF in 1973.
He was transferred to the RFMF Naval Division in 1975. He served as a Diver. Warrant Officer Uluinakubou was appointed Master at Arms in 1997, a position he held until his retirement.
Warrant Officer Rabuli is the Force Sergeant Major in the RFMF. He joined the RFMF in 1987. He has held various appointments as instructor, Company Sergeant Major, Chief Clerk, Regimental Sergeant Major, Land Force Sergeant Major before being appointed as the RFMF Force Sergeant Major.
The Charter for this new medal was issued by the President and includes a requirement that certain officials also hold the medal by virtue of the Office they hold. The following were also honored with medals today:
Colonel of the Regiment, Republi of Fiji Military Forces, His Excellency Brigadier-General Ratu Epeli Nailatikau
The Prime Minister, Hon. Major-General (Ret’d) Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka.
