Today we stand united as one family in mourning

The fallen heroes have taken the involvement of the people of the UAE to a new level, writes Taryam Al Subaihi

The bodies of the martyrs arrive in the UAE yesterday. WAM
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Growing up and living in the UAE, most of what I know of martyrdom for one’s country was learnt through accounts shared in social gatherings, news, historical records or featured in movies. And while I understood the nobility found in martyrdom, nothing could prepare me for the devastation that Friday’s great tragedy would bring to our nation. The loss of our troops in Yemen has not only touched every Emirati soul, but has also led to the sombre realisation of just how much our servicemen are willing to sacrifice in the line of duty.

This country is blessed as a peaceful nation. Right from the first days of union, following the example set by the late Sheikh Zayed, the UAE has always aspired to stand in the forefront of the march towards regional safety and stability.

Whether that be through gathering opposing sides to work out a peaceful solution, contributions towards poorer economies or assistance with medical aid and expertise, the country has never shirked its responsibilities.

And so, when the call came to raise arms against the oppression of the Houthi uprising, it was proudly answered by our troops.

Today, the people of the UAE stand as one family mourning its 45 fallen heroes.

These heroes have shown the world that our servicemen will not falter in their commitment towards the protection of our neighbours and allies from tyranny and oppression.

Today, we weep as a nation. Every Emirati home shares in the grief of the brave families of our martyrs. Everyone is filled with gratitude for the gift our fallen have left us: an unforgettable lesson that shows that the UAE is willing to sacrifice what is most precious, to ensure that every man, woman and child in Yemen shares the right to live peacefully and in security, and to do so with a government and leadership who are dedicated to the same goals.

Emiratis and Yemenis have rejoiced together following the victories and triumphs of the military campaign. Be it through the contribution of military intelligence, vehicles and personnel, or by the continued support of aid to the people of Yemen, the UAE and its allies have succeeded in making a difference on the ground in the conflict.

Much has been achieved, but the fallen heroes have taken the involvement of the people of the UAE to a new level. Their courageous sacrifice in the line of duty will now only strengthen the resolve of the people of the UAE in their determination to help end the suffering of the people of Yemen.

To reach our goals, there will undoubtedly be obstacles. And while the nation is willing to overcome, the sum of what can be lost is understood by all of the country.

Nevertheless, the UAE stands together, proud of the martyrs whose ultimate sacrifice will be honoured for years to come and will lead us to victory.

Each will honour the fallen in their own way. As Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, said: “The duty of these martyrs will remain a shining example in the history of our nation.”

As journalists, filmmakers, artists and storytellers, our contribution to this page of history can be to ensure the story of our martyrs is always told, to help us and the generations to follow in remembering the sacrifice, duty and honour of the fallen warriors of the 107th Brigade.

Taryam Al Subaihi is a political and social commentator who specialises in media and communications

On Twitter: @TaryamAlSubaihi