Friday, October 17, 2025, was a scene of emotion amongst family members as they watched President Joseph N. Boakai join the Ministry of National Defense and the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) to honor and retire six officers for their years of dedicated service to the nation.
The retired soldiers include Captain James S. Gbakoyah, Warrant Officer 2 Girley Merchant, Master Sergeant Richard S. Pah, the late Master Sergeant Jallah J. Sandy, First Sergeant Henry K. Bah, and First Sergeant Robert K. Toe. They each received payouts of US$45,000, US$35,000, US$28,000, US$28,000, US$25,500, and US$25,500, respectively.
The colorful ceremony, held at the Barclay Training Center (BTC) in Monrovia, marked a historic milestone as the first official post-war retirement within the AFL since Liberia’s 14-year civil conflict. President Boakai, serving as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, commended the retiring officers for their professionalism and patriotism. He described their service as a true reflection of discipline, reform, and national commitment. “This ceremony is more than a farewell; it represents progress, continuity, and a new era of discipline within our Armed Forces,” President Boakai stated. “The men and women who have served with integrity deserve our deepest gratitude and respect.”
The President emphasized the importance of making soldiers feel valued and appreciated for their contributions to the country. He also praised the army’s presentation and cleanliness, highlighting the need to maintain respectable standards and discussing efforts to provide electricity and improve living conditions at the Kesari Barracks.
However, he reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring that soldiers live in respectable camps and receive necessary resources. Lt. Col. Robert Jadoe, Assistant Chief of Staff for Personnel, provided an overview of the program, explaining that the ceremony marked the end of active service and the beginning of a new chapter for retirees. He assured that the government would ensure that retirees receive their rightful pensions and graduation benefits.
According to him, the pension is defined as 50% or more of the monthly salary, while the graduation benefit is a lump sum based on years of service, symbolizing the nation’s gratitude for their contributions. Lt. Col. Jadoe noted that the ceremony serves as a symbol of honor, respect, and national appreciation for the enduring legacy of the retirees, inspiring younger generations to serve with integrity and patriotism.
Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Warrant Officer 2 Girley Merchant expressed gratitude to the government for making the day historic and for the support provided throughout their service. She also reflected on their dedication to national defense and its impact on their lives. Additionally, she called on the President for further support, including building materials and financial assistance to help them transition to civilian life.
Defense officials hailed the event as a symbol of the AFL’s transformation and institutional growth, noting that structured retirements reflect the maturing administrative system of the force — a significant improvement from the instability that once plagued Liberia’s military sector.
