Kenya Defence Forces troops majorly drawn from the Army Special Operations Brigade (ASOB) commemorated the diamond jubilee celebrations of the Airborne Day celebrations at Kenyatta Barracks in Gilgil, Nakuru County on 08 August 2025.
The celebrations which were attended by serving, retired airborne personnel and their families was marked with pomp and colour. It began with a colourful parade and thereafter laying of wreaths at the Brigade’s monument in honour of soldiers who paid the ultimate price in defence of the country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. The climax of the celebrations was the showcasing of parachuting skills by the Green Eagles free fall team which was airdropped into the arena.
Speaking during the celebrations, the Chief Guest, Commander Kenya Army Lieutenant General David Ketter commended the Airborne troops for their steadfast dedication to duty and the remarkable achievements for the six decades of existence that have left an indelible mark in the Republic’s history.
‘‘Today is not merely a celebration of longevity, but a solemn tribute of a proud legacy, a legacy forged through discipline, courage, innovation and the unyielding spirit of our paratroopers. From their humble inception in 1965, our Airborne warriors have evolved into a strategic spearhead of the Kenya Army’s rapid deployment capability and an enduring symbol of elite professionalism within the Kenya Defence Forces,’’ he said.
Lieutenant General Ketter further stated that the Kenya Army command is investing resources in modernising various aspects of the Airborne Forces in order to meet the operational demands of the ever-changing security landscape.
‘‘The next chapter of the Airborne Forces must be driven by innovation and an unwavering pursuit of professional mastery. I am resolute in my vision of a disciplined, united and mission-ready force; a force where soldiers’ welfare is prioritised, where every paratrooper has a clear purpose and where operational excellence is not just an aspiration, but a lived reality,’’ stated Lieutenant General Ketter.
Commander Special Forces Operations Command Brigadier John Njeru appreciated the families of the Airborne troops for being their backbone by supporting them and enduring the unique challenges that arise with their training and operations.
‘‘Our families are the silent warriors support and inspire us even when they know deep in their hearts that their loved ones might not return home from our various deployments. We are privileged to have you besides us as we serve our nation,’’ said Brigadier Njeru.
Retired Warrant Officer Class I Jonathan Ole Nangidas urged the troops to continue hoisting the Airborne flag high through professionalism in all their undertakings and striving improve the standards in operations and training in order to build a better Force.
Airborne Day is observed annually on 05 August to honour Airborne soldiers who lost their lives in North Horr during jumps on 05 August 1979. Over the years, the day has also been used to honour Airborne soldiers who have lost their lives in various operational engagements.
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