Commander of the Maghawir (Lebanese Rangers Regiment) Shamel Roukoz has formally retired from the Army as per the age requirements of the military institution.
Born in the Batroun town of Hamat, Roukoz originally hails from the town of Shateen in the Tannourine region.
The honoured and respected soldier had bravely served in the Lebanese Army for over 35 years.
The retired General, was seen as the favourite candidate for Commander of the Lebanese Army, yet did not reach this position due to a decree signed by the Defence Minister which extended the term of the current army commander Jean Kahwaji.
The extension of Kahwaji, considered to be against procedure and legal jurisdiction, was seen as a means by the Mustaqbal party and allies to ensure that the position of army commander remains held by an official seen as favourable to their political line.
Media reports suggest that Roukoz rejected outright any suggestion that his own term be extended as he considered that this would have a negative impact on army moral.
Supporters of General Roukoz have called for a gathering in Martyrs square on Thursday evening in order to express gratitude to Roukoz for his service to Lebanon and the army.
Military career
During the Liberation war, under the leadership of Prime Minister General Aoun, Roukoz fought the Syrian forces and their Lebanese militia allies which were assaulting the “free zones” of East Beirut. During Summer 2007, he gained recognition as a brilliant Officer during the 15-week operation against Fatah al-Islam in Nahr al-Bared camp northern Lebanon. In addition, General Roukoz, fought Ahmed al-Assir and his supporters during the Battle of Sidon in 2013. [1] He also led the battles against the terrorist groups of Jabhat al-Nusra and DAESH during the Battle of Arsal and battle of Rass Baalbak.
Battles/wars
Battle of Arsal
Battle of Sidon
Operation Nahr el-Bared
Operation Dinnieh
Liberation War
Awards
For his distinguished military achievements, General Roukoz was awarded the National Order of Merit (Officer) by the President of France as well as the Order of Charles III Encomienda de Número (Commander by Number) by the king of Spain.
Civil–Rangers relations
According to Roukoz, the Lebanese people support is the strongest weapon to the Army. Thus, every year since 2008, the Rangers Regiment organizes unique mountain races open to both the military and civilians. Barracks to Barracks is the longest race with a participation of thousands of people from different nationalities. The races have also ecological and touristic goals.
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