The FALINTIL–Timor-Leste Defence Force (F-FDTL), celebrated the 10th Anniversary of its transformation from FALINTL into F-FDTL, on the 2nd of February last, in the Comander Nicolau Lobato Instruction Centre, Metinaro Headquarters, Manatuto.
“We celebrate today the 10th anniversary of the transformation of the Guerrilla Forces into Armed Forces, the FALINTIL-FDTL. An historical heritage since FALINTIL took on the burden of responsibility, from 1975 to 1999, and up to its transformation into F-FDTL. These forces offered themselves totally, spiritually and physically, sacrificing their lives in the difficult moments, away from their families, as to totally integrate in the search of an ideal, the liberation of their Homeland”, highlighted the President of the Republic, José Ramos-Horta, in his speech.
During the ceremony, 43 elements of the F-FDTL were promoted, namely:
- Three Lieutenant-Colonel were promoted to Colonel;
- Four Majors to Lieutenant-Colonel;
- Six Captains to Majors;
- Twelve Lieutenants to Captains;
- Seven First-Sergeants to Adjutant-Sergeants;
- One Soldier to Second-Sergeant;
- Ten Soldiers to Corporal
The ceremony counted with the participation of the Prime Minister, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, the President of the National Parliament, Fernando “Lasama” de Araújo, the UN Representative for Timor-Leste, Ameera Haq, Ambassadors, Members of the Government and Members of Parliament, the Timor-Leste National Police Commissioner, Commandant Longuinhos Monteiro, the former-Prime-Minister, Mari Alkatiri and the former-President of the National Parliament, Francisco Guterres “Lu-Olo”.