First Lady Rachel Ruto, Gen Ogolla Honored At The 60th Kenya Air Force Anniversary
The Kenya Air Force (KAF) celebrates its 60th anniversary on Saturday, June 8, after six decades of dedicated service.
During the ceremony, prominent figures such as President William Ruto, First Lady Rachel Ruto, and the late Chief of Defence Forces, General Francis Ogolla, received distinguished awards.
President Ruto was presented with a mounted eagle statue, which represents his vision, courage, strength, determination, and grace.
The Kenya Air Force commended him, stating, “These aspects we draw from your strategic leadership and support.”
General Ogolla, who tragically died in a plane crash on April 18, 2024, was posthumously honored with a miniature sword to commemorate his service.
Officers who have served with distinction in the military are awarded a miniature sword.
Ogolla joined the Kenya Air Force on May 2, 1984, and was commissioned a year later. He rose through the ranks, serving as Vice Chief of Defence Forces before being appointed Chief of Defence Forces in 2023.
Joel Ogolla received his award on behalf of the family.
Major General (Retired) Dedan Gichuru, the Kenya Air Force’s first Kenyan commander, also received an award. He was given a miniature sword for his visionary leadership.
Gichuru entered the Air Force in 1964, was promoted in 1984, and retired in 1989.
He is remembered not only as the first indigenous commander but also for his unique achievement of being appointed commander of the Kenya Air Force twice.
While First Lady Rachel Ruto was not present at the ceremony, her award will be presented to her at the State House.
The Kenya Air Force was established on June 1, 1964, with the mission of defending and maintaining the sovereignty of Kenyan airspace.
This mission has been faithfully upheld for six decades, with KAF playing an important role in ensuring Kenya’s territorial integrity.
Its inception coincided with Kenya’s first Madaraka Day anniversary, a watershed moment in the country’s history.
Over the years, KAF’s responsibilities have expanded beyond defense logistics to include critical humanitarian assistance and regional cooperation.
Its extensive network of bases and forward operating bases across the country demonstrates its dedication to the nation’s security and welfare.
This milestone celebration not only honours KAF’s past achievements but also sets the tone for future excellence and service to the nation.
The celebrations featured an air show and a mock tactical rescue of prisoners of war.
First Lady Rachel Ruto, Gen Ogolla Honored At The 60th Kenya Air Force Anniversary
