Emiratis keen to follow example set by heroes

Commemoration Day survey shows more want to sign up for military duty.

The General Headquarters of the Armed Forces last week celebrated the graduation of the fourth group of national military service and reserve recruits. Wam

DUBAI // Emiratis have been even more motivated to serve their country in the Armed Forces by the sacrifices made by soldiers, a survey shows.

The YouGov study was conducted in the build-up to the nation’s first Commemoration Day on Monday and reported that 56 per cent of the 941 respondents are more willing to take part in military service.

Another 78 per cent believe that the loss of Emirati soldiers had strengthened the country’s resolve and determination.

“Speaking out passionately about this new day of remembrance, both Emiratis [78 per cent] and expatriates [80 per cent] strongly believe they are united in sympathy and appreciation to remember the fall of UAE martyrs,” YouGov said.

Eighty-two per cent of residents agree that the country has a duty to remember those who give up their lives to protect it.

“In the wake of the heroes falling in Yemen, 81 per cent of respondents also believe people of the UAE and the country’s leadership have shown strong cohesion,” YouGov said.

The online poll also found that 77 per cent of those questioned believe the UAE’s media has displayed “strong unity and cooperation” while covering the conflict in Yemen.

Almost half of the respondents say providing support and condolences to families who have lost loved ones is the best tribute to their memories.

Another 38 per cent say offers of condolences from the country’s leaders to families is the best tribute.

The vast majority of those surveyed – 86 per cent – say they knew Commemoration Day was on Monday.

Of those, a third say they will be taking part in a special event, while 44 per cent are not sure.

Sacrifice and patriotism, at 57 per cent and 45 per cent, are the words most strongly associated with Commemoration Day.

These were closely followed by honour, 36 per cent, and pride at 31 per cent.

A sense of pride is also a more popular sentiment among Emiratis at 48 per cent, compared with 29 per cent for expatriates.

About 45 per cent will mark Commemoration Day in some way.

Another 27 per cent will offer prayers and 8 per cent will take part in flag rituals.

Fifty-two per cent of Emiratis are more likely to observe the event, compared with 32 per cent of expats.

› On the UAE’s first Commemoration Day we honour the sacrifice of our fallen brothers. Click on the image below to enlarge: