THE Second Battalion of the Royal Pacific Islands Regiment (2RPIR) today marked a historic occasion as it officially received and trooped the new King’s and Regimental Colours at Moem Barracks in East Sepik Province.
The ceremony was officiated by the Governor-General of Papua New Guinea, Bob Dadae, who commended the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) for its high standards of parade discipline and drill.
Sir Bob said he was proud of the professionalism displayed by the soldiers and encouraged the PNGDF to continue upholding the proud traditions of the Second Battalion and the Royal Pacific Islands Regiment.
“The Regimental Colours are synonymous with military achievement,” the Governor-General said.
“Regimental Colours not only display the battle honours of a military unit as a record of its past campaigns, but they also embody the spiritual core qualities of the unit—its esprit de corps, pride, identity and strength.”
He reminded the battalion to preserve the customs and traditions attached to the Colours and to treat commemorative occasions with the respect they deserve.
Sir Bob also highlighted that the battle honours displayed on the Regimental Colour stand as a testament to the bravery and courage of the unit’s predecessors, the Papuan Infantry Battalion and the New Guinea Infantry Battalion.
He urged the battalion to continue maintaining the pride and legacy of their unit, noting that the nation remains grateful and indebted to their service.
The Governor-General further emphasised the importance of strengthening the PNGDF through modern facilities, improved infrastructure, and state-of-the-art technology to ensure national borders are protected, fishing grounds safeguarded, and the country is prepared to defend against low- to medium-level military threats.