The martyrs are the sons of every UAE resident

On September 4 and 5, every house in the UAE stood silent, grief-stricken and devastated. The news of the passing of the 45 Emirati soldiers martyred in line of their duty shocked their families. The hearts of more than 9 million people swelled at the revelation that those brave men will not return home to their families, friends and community. Every mother and father remembered their son, every child their father, every wife her husband, and so with the idea of losing a loved one lingering in their minds, they mourned. The surge of heartfelt sentiments pouring in from every outlet proved that they were not simply a symbol of national valour, but also the sons of every resident in the UAE.

While the reds, greens, whites and blacks flew at half-mast across the country and an air of sorrow shrouded the atmosphere, we remained strong and proud. The 45 martyrs did not lose their lives in vain. Their sacrifice rattled the region as the men who will be remembered for leaving all the comfort of a safe home to protect and return the freedom that their brothers and sisters had lost in Yemen. The leaders of the UAE acknowledged and paid tribute to the actions that the fearless servicemen displayed in respecting and abiding by their duty. Thus, just like they had promised as they sang the national anthem with passion all their lives, the Emirati martyrs sacrificed their blood and souls for the prosperity of their homeland. Their bravery and the bravery of their brothers who died in the name of liberty and justice will be engraved in the pages of history of UAE forever. They will be memorialised as emblems representing Emirati, Islamic and Arabic ideals.

I urge you all to not only revere our martyrs’ feats and valiance, but to also follow their steps. Whether you are working in an office behind a computer or teaching children how to count, remember the duty you have towards your country and the values you hold dear to your heart. The soldiers headed to battle to face the dreadful unknown with pride, without ever hesitating or doubting themselves. They knew that they had two options; free their neighbours or die trying. With that, they held their head up high and with a strong resolve marched towards their calling.

Remember their sense of obligation and courage, and after praying that Allah may grant them rest and mercy, strive to harness it. May their memories live through us forever more.

— The reader is an Emirati journalism student based in Sharjah.