Elevated to the prestigious rank of Brigadier General following Presidential Decree NO. 2026/264 of 3 August 2026, Brigadier General ELOUNDOU E. Mesmin deemed it necessary to give thanks to God prior to any festivity.

It all started at the Mary Queen of the Apostles Basilica with a thanksgiving mass offered for his intentions.

The eucharistic celebration officiated by Father Luc Armand ATANGANA centered around the promoted and his wife, Mrs. ELOUNDOU… As well as the prestigious audience including Generals of the Defence Forces, Senior Officers, Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers of the National Gendarmerie and the other Corps, administrative and traditional authorities, family members and collaborators.

Visibly moved, General ELOUNDOU, accompanied by his wife expressed his profound gratitude to the Lord, to the Head of State, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Paul BIYA, for his ever-renewed confidence and to the military High Command for their leadership.

After the religious service, the General and his wife hosted a warm reception at their home in Afanoyoa, at the Nkolfon neighborhood.

Amidst decor of understated and elegant colours, the guests shared a toast of friendship.

In a brief and vibrant address, Mr. ESSAMA Lux Magloire, the elder brother of the newly promoted officer, retraced the exemplary career of an Officer whose rigor, loyalty, and high sense of duty command admiration.

Each in turn, the testimonies of certain key family members, classmates, and comrades-in-arms highlighted the human qualities of the man: an attentive husband, a loving father, and an approachable Chief.

This was followed by the ritual of epaulettes wetting by the Minister Delegate at the Presidency, in charge of Defence.

Several artistic and comedic performances graced the reception.

A highlight that will remain engraved in memories as the perfect illustration of the balance between military duty and family values.