Leaders from Kisumu county have joined other Kenyans to pay their tribute to the late Chief of Defence Forces Francis Ogolla.
The leaders led by Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o described Ogolla as a patriotic, humble and a dedicated servant of the people.
Nyong'o noted that the late CDF was supposed to be his guest on April 19 2024, paying him a courtesy call around 9am.
Ogolla however died on Thursday, just a day before the anticipated visit.
"On behalf on my family and the people of Kisumu County, I send heartfelt condolences to General Ogolla's family, colleagues and the Kenya Defense Forces," Nyong'o said.
"A giant has fallen. May the Lord rest his Soul in Eternal Peace. God help Kenya," he added.
Ogolla died on Thursday afternoon in a tragic helicopter crash which also killed nine other senior military officers in the Sindar area in Elgeyo Marakwet County.
Nyong'o mourned Ogolla as one of the finest solders and pilots in the history of the country, noting it was sad he had died at the prime of his career.
He said the country has lost a patriotic, humble and professional soldier.
The Governor Nyong'o also called for detailed investigations into the air accident that caused the death of General Ogolla and his fellow soldiers.
"May the families of all the decreased find comfort in the Lord".
Kenyan Ambassador to Egypt nominee Fred Outa in his tribute said the country has lost an industrious man and a person of fortitude.
Outa said he has known and interacted with Ogolla for quite some time and can attest to the fact that he was a straight forward man.
"On many occasions, as the chair National Security, Defense and Foreign Relations in the 12th Parliament of the Senate, we touched base with the late General, discussing matters relating to the Ministry of Defense," Outa said.
Outa noted that in him, Kenya had lost a dedicated servant of the people, who diligently performed his duties during his tenure in different ranks.
Outa described Ogolla as a figure whose professionalism in the defense was chequered in many ways.
"As he departs from us, we will cherish the good times we had together and reflect on his duties as one of the best soldiers and pilots in the country," he said.
He added that the country will truly miss his services having died at a prime age when Kenyans were still looking ahead for his services.
"On my own behalf and that of my family, I extend heartfelt condolences to Ogola's family and colleagues during these hard times."
Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron noted that the death of CDF Ogolla was a profound tragedy for the nation.
"On behalf of Kisumu central constituency, I wish to join the entire nation in mourning of a great patriot who lost his life. My thoughts and prayers go out to his beloved one, friends and colleagues during this difficult time," Oron said.
Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga noted that General Ogolla's commitment and leadership within the Kenya Defence Forces were exceptional and admired by many.
She said his unwavering dedication to the nation truly symbolised patriotism, honesty and professionalism.
"I also extend my deepest sympathies to the families of the KDF team members who had accompanied the General. During this difficult time, my thoughts are with you all," Odinga said.