Remembering heroes: five-year anniversary of UAE’s 45 martyrs

On September 4 2015, 45 Emirati soldiers were killed serving in Yemen

UAE leaders during last year's Commemoration Day event at Wahat Al Karama in Abu Dhabi. Courtesy: Wam

Friday marked the fifth anniversary of the day when 45 Emirati soldiers were martyred as part of an operation in Yemen.

The UAE Armed Forces servicemen died after a rocket attack in Yemen during a Saudi-led operation to drive out Houthi rebels.

Despite the loss, the UAE remained committed to restoring peace and security in Yemen.

At the time, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, said: “The UAE has lost a group of its purest men."

And, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, said at the time: “They’re true patriots who demonstrated utmost love and loyalty to their country and nation. Our martyrs of duty are true models in our history.”

The tragic incident took place at a military base in the eastern province of Marib in central Yemen.

In December 2015, UAE president Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed issued a decree that November 30 would be marked as Commemoration Day as a way to honour and remember the country's heroes.

During last year’s Commemoration Day, a number of martyrs' families were honoured at an event at the Wahat Al Karama – the national landmark in Abu Dhabi that honours the sacrifices and heroic deeds of UAE heroes while defending their homeland.

They were awarded with a Medal of the Martyr.