The Ministry of National Defense on Thursday consoled with families with 13 deceased civilian and military personnel of the Liberian army for their sacrifices and gallantry performed over the years.

Defense Minister Brownie Samukai consoled families of the deceased AFL soldiers at a gratuity ceremony here, saying: "We've come here today not to reawaken the memories of our fallen friends who diligently served their country, but to remember the sacrifices and contributions they made to their country."

"Our purpose of organizing this forum is to tell you the family members how well the Ministry of National Defense and the Government of the Republic of Liberia appreciate the sacrifices and contributions and love that these fallen AFL and civilian personnel displayed for their country while in active service," he stressed.

The list of deceased soldiers that were memorialized from 2011 to 20 October 2012, included Pfc Roland Davis, Pvt Marline Kaewolor, Pfc Alex Zorgbah and Bandsman Joseph T. Bai, amongst others.

He also paid homage to a group of civilian employees of the ministry from 2006 to October 2012, including Joe D. Watson of the Communication Specialist Unit, and Roseline Paasewe; Receptionist/COIC, as well as John N. Williams, photographer, James Verdier, Chauffeur/SAAM, and Christopher S.K. Kanimu, former Assistant Director for security.

Mr. Samukai later presented a cheque worth $US3,000 from the government to each representative of the deceased defense ministry personnel in appreciation of their contributions to their nation.

"There's no love greater than someone who dies in order for others to live. This is what our brothers and sisters have done. We need to recognize that," he added.