Monrovia — The new army of Liberia commemorated the centennial anniversary of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) on Monday with a big parade through downtown Monrovia.
February 11, observed annually as Armed Forces Day, had a special flavor this year, with members of the new army exhibiting their skills, parades, and military maneuvers to the delight of dignitaries. President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was among those who gathered at the Barclay Training Center (BTC) military barracks to mark the occasion.
The army, which is being trained by DynCorp, a private security firm hired by the U.S government, looked smartly dressed and well drilled. The troops are those who successfully completed what is said to be a rigorous vetting process that includes academic and health qualifications.
Prior to the parade, 16 officers, nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate, were commissioned, representing the first set of officers of the new army. All have met the prerequisite of having a college degree.
In her Armed Forces Day message, President Sirleaf told the soldiers that the Liberian people have high expectations of their new army and they must not let the people down. She asked the soldiers to respect “constituted authority and the rule of law.”
The president thanked the U.S government for “taking the primary responsibility for the training of the new AFL.” She also lauded the roles played by China, Nigeria and other partners.
The president and commander-in-chief of the Liberian army made the case that strength is not measured on the force of arms alone but through creating a “strong economy and a vibrant democracy.”
While acknowledging the military's prime responsibility to “secure our borders and coastlines,” she said they must also be “development oriented, as well as technically trained, to carry out their constitutional mandate.” She said that members of the armed forces must be prepared to extend medical help, to engage in agricultural projects, including growing their own food, and generally to contribute to Liberia's development.
Following the ceremony at the BTC, hundreds of onlookers cheered the troops on as they marched through town. So far, DynCorp has trained 1,131 soldiers, more than half of the 2,000 expected to be trained.
The new army leaders hope they can forge a friendship between troops and citizenry. A few years ago, the army was dreaded by the people.
