The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) today announced the promotion appointment of three senior officers.
They’re Lieutenant Colonels Anthony Oawa, Lt Col Andrew Ringrowe Dopeke and Lt Col Albert Palauva who have all been promoted to the rank of Colonel.
Col Oawa from the Autonomous Region of Bougainville has been appointed as Chief of Personnel.
Col Dopeke from Morobe Province has been appointed as Defence Attaché’ to the United Nations in New York and Col Palauva from East New Britain is now appointed as Defence Attaché’ to New Zealand.
PNGDF Acting Secretary Trevor Meauri, who witnessed the announcement, congratulated the Colonels on their appointment.
Meauri said the PNGDF is not an easy organisation to work in given many issues over the years.
PNGDF Commander Brigadier General Gilbert Toropo said the PNGDF has a total trust in their ability to continue to deliver in their appointments.
Toropo added that their appointments are very critical at this stage, especially when the country is going through a time when resources are very scarce in terms of man power and finance.
Col Oawa on behalf of the three thanked all officers who made it possible for them to reach this rank.
He challenged his two colleagues to make decisions based on the interest of the organisation so that the next generation of officers will not face the problems faced today.