FAREWELL CEREMONY FOR FORMER KENYA AIR FORCE SERGEANT MAJOR

The Kenya Air Force (KAF) held a dignified farewell ceremony on 15th July 2025 at the Moi Air Base (MAB) Gymnasium to honour Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Dennis Talengo, the outgoing Kenya Air Force Sergeant Major (KAFSM), who officially retired after more than four decades of distinguished service. The event was presided over by the Commander, Kenya Air Force, Major General Bernard Waliaula.

WO1 Talengo, who was enlisted into the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) on 6th April 1983, retires as the longest-serving Sergeant Major in the history of the Kenya Air Force, having held the position for ten years. Throughout his service, he was known for his exceptional leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of service members. He played a pivotal role in promoting discipline, mentoring junior personnel, and championing numerous welfare initiatives within the KAF. His successor is WO1 Franco Leparsalaach.

During his remarks, Major General Waliaula praised WO1 Talengo for his dedicated service, noting his critical role as a principal advisor to the Commander on matters of discipline, welfare, and professional development. He expressed gratitude on behalf of the Kenya Air Force and extended best wishes for his retirement.

The Deputy Commander of the Kenya Air Force, Brigadier Samuel Kipkorir, also lauded WO1 Talengo for his impactful leadership and mentorship. He acknowledged the significant contribution WO1 Talengo made to the growth and progress of the service.

In his remarks, WO1 Talengo expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Kenya Air Force and shared reflections from his career. He emphasized the values of discipline, patience, and endurance, urging fellow service members to perform their duties with purpose, to support one another, and to uphold the spirit of teamwork.

The Defence Sergeant Major, WO1 Omar Haji, described WO1 Talengo as a humble and inspiring leader whose influence will continue to be felt long after his retirement.

The ceremony was attended by senior leadership, including the Base Commanders from Laikipia, Wajir, and Embakasi Air Bases, the Principal of the Defence Forces Technical College (DEFTEC), the Chief of Medical Services, senior officers, officers, the Army and Navy Sergeant Majors, Base Sergeant Majors, service members, and family members.