Sunday dedicated as day of prayer, reflection for soldiers who died in helicopter crash

To honour the five soldiers who perished in Wednesday’s helicopter crash, December 10, 2023 has been dedicated as a ‘Day of Prayer and Reflection’.

President Dr Irfaan Ali on Friday announced and called on all religious organizations across the country to lend their support in a statement on Friday.

In the statement issued, the Head of State said throughout the day, the memories of the fallen soldiers will be honoured while prayers will be offered for the “speedy recovery” of the two survivors and the grieving families.

At the same time, President Ali said the day is an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by the soldiers during their service to the nation.

“May this Day of Prayer and Reflection serve as a balm of healing and compassion. Together, let us uplift each other in spirit, and may our collective prayers bring comfort to the grieving hearts and strength to those who continue to endure the aftermath of this devastating helicopter crash,” President Ali said.

According to the Head of State, the death of the servicemen have “shaken the nation to its core”.

“It is in moments like these that we must we find strength in unity, solace in each other, and hope in our shared humanism.  Now is the time for us to draw strength from one another, to share the burden of sorrow, and to collectively pray for the victims, their grieving families, and for the swift recovery of the survivors of the horrific helicopter crash,” President Ali urged.

He added, “let us unite in spirit to honor the memory of our fallen heroes and provide comfort to those who are now crestfallen due to this unforeseen and tragic event.”

On Thursday, five of the seven soldiers who were onboard the Bell 412 Army helicopter that crashed on Wednesday were confirmed death.

They are Lieutenant Colonel, Michael Charles, Colonel Michael Shahoud, Retired Brigadier, Gary Beaton, Lieutenant Colonel, Sean Welcome and Stadd Sergeant Jason Khan.

The two survivors are Corporal Dwayne Jackson and Lieutenant Andio Crawford.

The army helicopter reportedly lost signal 30 miles from the border with Venezuela.