Page 86 - Bugle Autumn 2023

ASSOC & WELLBEING
A FIJIAN LAMENT
Rifleman Israel Delinamati
died whilst serving with
3 RIFLES in Estonia.
On the eve of Rifleman Israel Delinamati’s body being repatriated from Estonia to the UK, several serving Riflemen and veterans gathered at the Brize Norton community centre to celebrate the life of and mourn
his passing. The RSM 3 RIFLES and the Commanding Officer of 2 RIFLES were also in attendance, as a number of very moving Fijian laments were sung throughout the evening. Irrespective of culture, what a respectful tribute by comrades and veterans for a Rifleman lost.
The RSM and an all-Fijian pall bearer party had been in situ for a few days, rehearsing the drill for the repatriation. They would also go on to carry out the same drill for his final flight to Fiji and the funeral.
It speaks volumes of The Rifles that whilst in Fiji, the RSM 3 RIFLES and pall bearer party would also take the opportunity to visit the grave of Rifleman Vakabua (KIA Iraq 2007).
86 RIFLES The Bugle