Cameroon's history is marked by the silent, yet heroic commitment of its sons in the greatest battles of the 20th century. Often relegated to the shadows of dominant historical narratives, Cameroonian veterans played a decisive role in the two World Wars as well as in the conflicts of Algeria, Indochina, and Korea. Their bravery and loyalty left an indelible mark on the collective memory, even though they remained overlooked for a long time by the Western powers they had defended.

A Decisive Commitment throughout Global and Related Conflicts

During the First World War (1914–1918) and the Second World War (1939–1945), thousands of Cameroonians were enlisted in the French colonial troops. They fought on battlefields across Europe, North Africa, and Asia, facing cold, hunger, fear, and death for ideals of freedom and justice; Ideals from which they themselves did not always benefit. Later on, other Cameroonian were mobilized for the wars of Indochina, Algeria, and Korea, and taking part in perilous operations under particularly harsh conditions.

Builders of the National Army and Architects of Peace

In the wake of independence, these veterans, strengthened by their military experience and sense of duty—played an active role in creating the Cameroonian national army. In a context of internal unrest marked by armed uprisings, they contributed to the pacification of the territory and the consolidation of national unity. Their role was also decisive in defending the country’s integrity, notably during the recovery of the Bakassi Peninsula once occupied by Nigeria, and in safeguarding the Far North against terrorist threats from jihadists and Boko Haram. Their commitment laid the foundation for a stable, organized, and sovereign Cameroon.

A Delayed Acknowledgement

Despite their courage and loyalty, these African heroes were long denied recognition by Western powers. Many lived in poverty, without adequate pensions or social assistance, victims of an unequal system inherited from the colonial era. This injustice left deep scars in the collective memory of these former soldiers and their families.

The Cameroonian Government’s Will to Make Amends

Aware of this moral debt, the Cameroonian State, under the leadership of His Excellency Mr. Paul BIYA, President of the Republic and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, has undertaken strong measures to give these veterans the place they deserve. In this spirit, the National Office for Veterans, Former Soldiers and War Victims of Cameroon (ONACAM) was created. This institution provides multifaceted assistance to these men and women through social support, healthcare, payment of upgraded pensions, and guidance for their economic reintegration.

ONACAM: A Pillar of Support, Recognition, and Hope

The National Office for Veterans, Former Soldiers and War Victims of Cameroon (ONACAM) stands today as a key player in preserving national memory and supporting veterans. More than a simple administrative body, it represents a true framework dedicated to listening, protecting, and promoting those who sacrificed their youth to defend freedom to build modern Cameroon.

Through its regional branches and targeted programs, ONACAM implements concrete, multidimensional actions:

• Social and material support, including medical, psychological, and moral assistance to improve beneficiaries’ quality of life.
• Financial assistance, through income-generating projects that foster autonomy and integration into the socio-economic fabric.
• Memorial recognition, ensuring official acknowledgment of their sacrifices through ceremonies, honorary distinctions, and awareness campaigns for younger generations.

Guided by the vision of the Head of State and backed by government commitment, ONACAM acts as an effective bridge between veterans and public authorities, ensuring that their rights are protected and their needs are met with appropriate responses. This mission of proximity, marked by humanity, helps restore pride, dignity, and hope to these heroes while ensuring their legacy at the heart of national history.

Through its ongoing action, ONACAM does more than preserve a glorious past: it opens a future of acknowledgement and justice, reminding all that a nation can only be built sustainably by honoring those who gave their very best for it.

Final Thoughts: Memory, Dignity, and Recognition

Cameroonian veterans are far more than mere witnesses of history; they are its silent builders and vigilant guardians. Through their courage, discipline, and unwavering love for their country, they defended freedom, helped build the national army, and contributed to the preservation of Cameroon’s stability. Their legacy transcends generations and remains a foundation of Cameroon's national pride.

Today, thanks to the enlightened vision of the Head of State, implementation by the government and carried out through the concrete actions of ONACAM, the Republic reaffirms its gratitude by paying them the tribute they deserve. This duty of remembrance is more than an act of recognition: it is a profound commitment to justice, dignity, and equity.

To honor the veterans is to remind all that sacrifice and bravery are the cornerstones of sovereignty. It is also to pass on to present and future generations a lesson in unity, perseverance, and fidelity to the Nation. Through them, the very soul of Cameroon shines, reminding us that the greatness of a people is measured by its ability to celebrate those who gave the best of themselves for its future.

(Signed) Colonel (Rtd) Alfred FULLER