General Ogolla Grieved Soldiers' Deaths as He Would His Own Children - His Son Joel Reveals

 In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…

• Joel Omondi Ogolla, son of the late Chief of Defence Forces General Ogolla, described his father's deep emotional impact from Kenya's security challenges and his sorrow over the loss of soldiers in combat.

• Despite setbacks, General Ogolla remained committed to achieving peace in Kenya, and Joel encouraged the armed forces to continue his father's vision of fighting terrorism and banditry with strength and resolve.

File image of General Ogolla

Joel Omondi Ogolla, son of the late Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Ogolla, shared the emotional burden his father faced due to Kenya's security challenges. 

Speaking at a Military Honours ceremony on Saturday to honor his father's passing, Joel recounted how deeply affected the late General was when he learned of Kenyan soldiers dying in combat against Al-Shabaab terrorists and bandits.

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Joel revealed that his father grieved these incidents as if he had lost his own child. He emphasized the General's deep respect and care for his soldiers, expressing his distress over their losses. 

Despite these emotional setbacks, General Ogolla remained steadfast in his pursuit of a peaceful Kenya, often praying for the strength to fight Kenya's enemies.

"He would kneel and pray to God for the strength to combat terrorists and bandits," Joel shared. 

He urged the armed forces to continue his father's dream of a peaceful Kenya and face their missions with courage.

Joel's speech highlighted his father's desire to die fighting Kenya's enemies, encouraging the military to be fearless in the face of terrorism and banditry. 

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The General, along with nine other military personnel, died in a helicopter crash in Elgeyo Marakwet County on Thursday.

President William Ruto declared three days of national mourning in response to General Ogolla's death. 

Ogolla will be laid to rest on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at his family home in Mor, Alego Usonga, Siaya County.