Tributes continue to pour in following the death of Chief of Defence Forces Francis Ogolla and nine other military officers Thursday afternoon in a helicopter crash in Marakwet East.
Among the 10 officers who died was Captain Mohamed Sora who was buried Friday in Hellu village, Marsabit County.
Marsabit Governor Mohamud Ali in his tribute described Captain Sora as a rising star who brought pride to the people of Marsabit.
The Governor said Sora's passing was a loss to the county and the entire nation.
Speaking during his burial ceremony, Governor Ali expressed condolences to the grieving family and emphasised the importance of unity and support during such trying times.
He assured the family of his assistance and willingness to collaborate with other leaders and residents to aid the young family left behind by Captain Sora.
Deputy Majority Whip Canon Naomi Waqo and Former Isiolo Women's Representative Rehema Jaldesa shared their empathy with the bereaved family.
They stressed the need for pastoralists to end perennial inter-clan conflicts, which have caused immense losses to the country.
Kello Harsama offered condolences and prayers, asking for God's grace to envelop the mourning family during this difficult time.
Captain Sora was born in Helu, near the border town of Moyale.
He entered the military as a cadet and later attended Kenyatta University, where he earned a Second Class Honours, Upper Division, in Bachelor of Science in Military and Security Studies in 2017.
Sora joined the Kenya Air Force and received training at the elite Starlite Aviation Training Academy in Durban, South Africa.
Other eight military officers who passed away include Brig Swaleh Saidi, Col Duncan Keitany, Lt Col David Sawe, Major George Benson Magondu (who was also the pilot), Capt Hillary Litali, Senior Sergeant John Kinywa Mureithi, Sergent Cliffonce Omondi and Sergent Rose Nyawira.
In honouring the lives and distinguished military career of these fallen heroes, President William Ruto declared a three-day mourning period starting Friday, April 19, 2024.
During this time, the Kenyan flag, that of KDF and the EAC will fly half-mast in the country and Kenya missions abroad.