Speech of His Excellency Dr. Rashid Ahmed Bin Fahad Minister of Environment and Water

Today, we are all gathered to commemorate this national event, as directed by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, that November 30 of each year be celebrated as the day honoring UAE Martyrs—martyrs of our nation whose blood did not go to waste but instead has helped pave the way for us to achieve what was impossible yesterday, which has become a reality because of God, our wise leadership and the selfless efforts made by these martyrs. Today is a commemoration, fulfillment and an acknowledgement of the tender sacrifices made by these martyrs, who have given their lives to perform their military duties to defend our country and keep the UAE flag flying high. 

We all stand in unity with the families of these martyred heroes—joining hands with them and expressing our pride in their children's sacrifice for the homeland; to show that the spirit of nationalism burns fervently in the hearts of younger and older generations and to show our support for the efforts of the UAE's wise leadership in assisting the families of these martyrs, placing them as top priority in providing them with love, care and patience. These efforts are to recognize that their families—the mother, father and the rest of their family—were responsible in bringing up and educating a generation of today's heroes. 

It is with great pride that I say that these challenges and difficulties will only increase Emirati unity, solidarity and coherence. The UAE people will be able to meet these challenges—facing them head on with courage, patience, resilience and the skills of a highly trained military force under the able leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. 

I continue my thanks and appreciation to the families of the martyrs and their families, and stress that their children's lives will remain immortal in our memory--their strength and the determination will continue to inspire us in defending our land and protecting our sons and our brothers inside and outside the State.