Lee Okoroafo, Force Ordnance Warrant Officer for the Falkland Islands, will be spending this Father’s Day away from his family. In his role at the British Forces South Atlantic Islands base he conducts assurance and inspection, interacting with units and advising them on logistics processes.
Part of our Directorate Overseas Bases, the Falklands Islands form part of UKStratCom’s global network of locations, personnel, and capabilities.
Reflecting on his role and its importance, Lee shared the below.
With the snow ravaging the Island the last few days, it could be a White Father’s Day out here in the Falkland Islands. Being approximately 8000 miles away from my family, Father’s Day will feel different this year especially with my son also away in Pirbright on his Basic Training. Usually when I am away on deployment over festive periods, my son will normally assume the role of the father of the house, but this is not the case as both of us are away from home but proud to serve our nation.
Serving my nation and humanity is something I take pride in, and my family appreciates this hence they have stood by me and encouraged me all the way. So being away have not stopped us from celebrating and being my day as a father, I will start the day with a virtual family prayer to thank God for His protection, goodness and mercy over my life and family, then attend Church service. Midday I will be singing lots of hymns in honour of my late father.
Lee Okoroafo is currently serving in the Falkland Islands
Although, I will miss the special activities lined up for Father’s Day in my church and the special meal my wife will make, the rest of the day will be spent at the Rock Hopper welfare facility where commonwealth soldiers’ community will be meeting to celebrate. We are hoping to have a good celebration out here and the ladies have promised to make us special delicacies. We will also use the opportunity to reflect amongst ourselves what it means to be a father serving in the military and impact on our family life.
So, for all the serving fathers who are away from home, I celebrate with you and wish you a Happy Father’s Day.
Lee my brother I agree with you but what can we do,It is good for one to his nation the most important thing is that your family stood by you. The lord is your strength, it’s well bro
5 comments
Comment by Charles Serano posted on
A day well spent Boss. #Rockhoppers
Comment by Ngozi Ogbonnaya posted on
May God continue to strengthen you all
Comment by Charles Ejiofor posted on
Lee my brother I agree with you but what can we do,It is good for one to his nation the most important thing is that your family stood by you. The lord is your strength, it’s well bro
Comment by Chidi Alex O posted on
No person was ever honoured for what he received. However, honour has always been the reward for what we gave. Happy Father's Day Sir.
Comment by Scott Coles posted on
Legend! Hope your time down there goes swift my friend.