Unification of the UAE Armed Forces historic decision: Al Humairi
Speaking on the occasion of 32nd Anniversary of the Unification of the Armed Forces, he added that the "decision marked the building and development of strong forces per a clear-cut, fully integrated military strategy".
Full text of the speech: on 6 May 1976, the Supreme Federal Council made a historic decision to the unification of the armed forces under one banner and one command to serve as bulwark for defending the homeland, its sovereignty and achievements. The decision marked the building and development of strong forces per a clear-cut, fully integrated military strategy highlighting, from the outset, the inevitable co-relationship between the two missions of building the military force and supporting the Federation.
Today, and under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, the mission is accomplished, ideology strengthened, and fighting competence developed to the best standards.
The armed forces proved themselves on many levels. Internally, they had effective presence, taking part in bilateral and joint exercises with GCC and brotherly and friendly armies and hosting the first "Desert Shield" drill. Externally, they acquitted themselves well in the liberation of Kuwait, and made an invaluable contribution to UN missions such as Operation "Bring Hope" in Somalia, and supporting the Kosovo people.
Celebrating the 32 nd anniversary of the unification of the armed forces we should be grateful to the founder late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan who cooperated with his brothers Their Highnesses Rulers of the emirates and members of the Supreme Federal Council in strengthening these forces that made building of national cadres a first priority.
The General Headquarters of the armed forces planned, and is still planning, for building fighting formations per the latest military training techniques. Every possible support was given and on-going training courses provided to maintain competence and cope with today's standards. Scholarships were offered, along with joint training with brotherly and friendly countries to obtain more experience. Also provided was up-to-date weaponry to meet operational requirements per latest military technological standards, and technical studies according to long- term plans taking into consideration necessary integration of various branches of the armed forces. The fruit was a national highly competent cadre capable of interacting with the spirit of the age.
It is on this occasion that we look forward to more success stories, staying loyal and close, be up to the responsibility, pursue training and multiply our scientific background, with particular emphasis on military sciences.
It is my pleasure on this occasion to accord my warmest congratulations to His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President of the UAE, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Their Highnesses Rulers of the Emirates and members of the Supreme Federal Council, and His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
Finally, we seize this opportunity to renew our allegiance and unequivocal determination to sacrifice our souls for our homeland.
WAM/MN