Siaya: Kenya Defence Forces retirees have been urged to ensure safe custody of their documents, which are invaluable to facilitate access to services and benefits.According to Kenya News Agency, Siaya County Defence Forces Comrades' Association (DEFOCA) Chairman, Boniface Owino Kotaya, highlighted the challenges faced by military veterans and their dependents due to the loss of crucial documents such as discharge certificates, which are essential for processing dues.Speaking during the 10th anniversary of the Alego Usonga Military Retirees Organisation (ALUMIRO) in Siaya town, Kotaya advised those who lose such documents to obtain police abstracts to facilitate the process of acquiring replacements. He emphasized the importance of spouses of military veterans in safeguarding these documents, as they could significantly impact their future.Kotaya noted, 'We have veterans, some of whom fought in World War Two, who are still benefiting because they kept their documents safe.' He expressed surprise at the lack of concern shown by some veterans regarding their documents after leaving service. He encouraged retirees to collaborate with the community and participate in positive development initiatives to ensure longevity.The event also featured remarks from Tom Juma Otieno, the secretary of the Ugenya Ugunja veterans, who advocated for the establishment of a Siaya chapter of the veterans' association. This initiative aims to help veterans benefit from the Military Veterans Act, 2022. Otieno shared that Major General (rtd) Lucas Tumbo, chairman of the Military Veterans Advisory Committee, supported the formation of the chapter.Otieno emphasized the importance of veterans coming together to support one another in various endeavors. Celestine Omondi Owade, the founder chairperson of ALUMIRO, mentioned that the organization currently has 44 members and is active in community environmental campaigns, including tree planting at Karapul and Malomba schools.Wilfred Daudi, representing Siaya County Commissioner Norb ert Komora, commended the veterans for their service to the country during their active years. The occasion was also addressed by the current ALUMIRO Chairman, Chrispin Oduor Omoga.