Abu Dhabi: The grand ceremonies on November 7, to welcome the first batch of UAE heroes at Zayed Military City as the 15-km-long UAE army convoy rolled in across the UAE-Saudi border, made Ali Al Migbali’s heart swell with pride. His brother, 33-year-old Omar Rashid Al Migbali, was a part of the first batch of UAE soldiers to head off to Yemen as part of Operation Restoring Hope and in the line of duty that he cherished so greatly, he laid down his life for his nation.
Omar, from Al Ain, was laid to rest on September 5.
Recalling his brother’s values of justice and rightness, Ali, who is also part of the UAE Armed Forces, said, “I was exceptionally proud to see our troops return with outstanding victories. I dedicate this day to my brother, and to all the other martyrs who went above and beyond their call of duty to ensure that good prevails over evil,” he added.
Ali said he would like to offer his deepest gratitude to his leaders, “who exerted efforts to salute the families of every single martyr, which really does not happen anywhere else. We are immensely fortunate to have such genuine leaders, who set us apart from any other country.”
He is proud of the fact the UAE leaders have decided on commemorating a day to honour the sacrifices of its martyrs.
“Every year, we will look forward to this day [November 30],” Ali said. “Citizens and residents of the UAE alike will celebrate this day by reminiscing about the brave soldiers and praying for them. May their souls rest in peace. May they be granted immediate access to paradise.”
“And for those who are in Yemen, may they be granted the strength to spread the light of hope and peace to Yemen. Our hearts and thoughts are with them,” Ali added.
Remembering his brother, Ali said he can never forget the day of Omar’s funeral.
“I have never in my life seen so many people gather in one place. Thousands of people queued up to perform the funeral prayers for my brother. Our leaders, Emiratis and other residents, were constantly showering us with love and sympathy through their visits and heartfelt condolences at our mourning tent.”
Omar, he said, was a well-mannered individual, a man of his word, who always made sure to reach out to his family members and look after their well-being.
“May his soul rest in peace. He was gentle, sincere, gracious and courteous. He used to visit me at least twice a week. I miss the days when we would hang out together and fill the house with laughter and joy.”
His longing for his brother’s presence apart, Ali finds solace in the pride he feels for his brother’s valour. “His martyrdom ignites my pride and patriotism for the UAE, a country the whole world looks upon [with admiration],” said Ali.
He said he thinks of his brother all the time. “It is nearly impossible to get over someone who was so dear to your heart.”
Omar leaves behind his wife, a son and two daughters.
Ali extended his best wishes to the second batch of the UAE soldiers, who resumed their national duty in Yemen on November 2, and are standing in solidarity with their brothers for a national cause.
“I hope they return safely to us as victors,” he said.
