Survivor of Chopper Crash That Killed Former CDF Ogolla Shares His Healing Journey
Colonel Kasaine Ole Kuruta, one of the two survivors of the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the life of former Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Francis Ogolla, has opened up about his recovery and the life lessons he has learned since the devastating incident.
Speaking during a moving memorial service held in honour of General Ogolla and the nine other Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officers who perished in the crash, Colonel Kuruta reflected on the emotional and physical journey he has gone through.
The service took place at Moi Air Base in Nairobi, where military personnel gathered to pay tribute to their fallen colleagues.
Addressing his fellow officers and attendees, Kuruta spoke from the heart, recalling the crash as a moment that forever changed his outlook on life.
He shared how the incident made him deeply value time spent with family and loved ones, a lesson he now holds close every day.
“The memories of that day will always stay with me. It changed how I see life,” Kuruta said. “Since that day, I’ve learned to treasure every single moment with those I love. Time is precious, and life is not to be taken for granted.”
Colonel Kuruta explained that his survival, along with that of his fellow crash survivor, brought a renewed sense of purpose and responsibility.
“My brother Karanja and I may carry both visible and invisible scars, but those scars remind us of something bigger.
We were given another chance—not just to live, but to live meaningfully, to truly live well,” he said with deep emotion.
He further emphasized that General Ogolla and the other fallen officers should be remembered for how they lived, not how they died.
He described them as individuals who made lasting impacts through their dedication, smiles, and humanity.
Kuruta also took a moment to express heartfelt gratitude to his wife, who stood by him during his most vulnerable days in hospital. “I want to sincerely thank my beloved wife. While I was being treated at the Defence Memorial Hospital, she never left my side.
She gave me strength through her presence and encouragement, and I will always be grateful for that,” he stated.
He extended appreciation to the families of the deceased officers, noting that their strength and presence helped him carry the memory of those who passed.
“To the families here today, thank you. You help us remember your loved ones not just for the day we lost them, but for the joy, love, and life they shared with us,” he added.
Colonel Kuruta’s heartfelt message came just a day after the other crash survivor, Frankford Karanja Mogire, a KDF photographer, appeared publicly for the first time since the accident.
Mogire was seen accompanying President William Ruto during the official unveiling of a plaque at Lanet Regional Hospital, located at the Kenya Military Academy in Nakuru County.
The fatal crash happened on April 18, 2024, in the Sindar area of Elgeyo Marakwet County. The military chopper went down while carrying General Ogolla and other top KDF officers on an official mission. The tragedy sent shockwaves across the country and the military fraternity.
President William Ruto officially confirmed the heartbreaking news during a national address from State House, Nairobi.
He mourned General Ogolla as a highly respected four-star general who had served the nation with dedication and honour.
According to the President, Ogolla was a committed and professional leader who gave his all in service to Kenya.
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