MONROVIA – The Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) held a landmark retirement ceremony on Friday, October 17, 2025, at the Barclay Training Center, marking the first such event in post-war Liberia to formally honor retiring personnel for their dedicated service. The ceremony recognized six members of the AFL whose careers were defined by discipline, courage, and loyalty in safeguarding the peace and stability of the nation.
The government, through the Ministry of National Defense, ensured that all retirees received gratuity and pension benefits in accordance with the AFL Gratuity and Pension Policy, passed into law on August 14, 2024. As part of this policy, pensions provide retirees with fifty percent or more of their monthly salary, while gratuity is a lump sum based on years of service, serving as a token of appreciation for their contributions to Liberia’s defense.
The retirees honored at the ceremony included 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. Each received recognition for a career spent in service to the nation, leaving a legacy of dedication and professionalism.
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., who serves as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Liberia, attended the ceremony as Special Guest of Honor. The President lauded the retirees for their selfless service and underscored the importance of honoring military personnel who uphold the values of discipline, loyalty, and sacrifice in defense of the nation.
Brigadier General Geraldine Janet George (Rtd), Minister of National Defense, also attended the event, alongside Major General Davidson Fayiah Forleh, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of Liberia. Both officials expressed appreciation for the retirees and reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the welfare of personnel transitioning into civilian life.
During his remarks, Major General Forleh emphasized that service to the nation extends beyond active duty. “To those still serving, this ceremony reminds us that our oath to defend our nation does not end with the uniform, it endures for life. Let this moment inspire us to remain vigilant, professional, and committed to excellence in all we do,” he stated.
The ceremony highlighted the AFL’s commitment to professional development and recognition, setting a precedent for future retirements. It also reinforced the enduring principle that those who serve in the military carry a lifelong responsibility to their country.
The retirees received both formal recognition and tangible benefits as they transitioned to civilian life, a move the government says strengthens morale and fosters a culture of professionalism within the Armed Forces.
President Boakai praised the AFL for its role in maintaining national security and stability, noting that the ceremony reflects a broader effort to institutionalize respect for service and dedication across all sectors of government.
The AFL has described the event as a symbol of its commitment to uphold military values while ensuring that personnel who have dedicated their lives to the nation are appropriately honored and supported in retirement.
The retirement of these six personnel marks a historic moment in Liberia’s post-war military history, underscoring the professionalism and enduring spirit of the Armed Forces.
As the ceremony concluded, officials reiterated that the AFL remains “A Force for Good,” committed to excellence, discipline, and the defense of Liberia’s sovereignty and peace.
