In Mourning of the Hero Khaled Badah Al-Otaibi
Khaled Badah Al-Murji Al-Otaibi, a hero of the Kuwait National Guard, has passed away to the mercy of Allah. He fell in the Battle of Jihan on the morning of Iraq’s evil invasion, August 2, 1990. Although Allah did not grant him martyrdom on that day, nor when he returned to Kuwait as part of the liberating Kuwaiti forces in Operation February 1991, it was Allah’s will that he attain martyrdom after passing away today, having succumbed to a malignant disease.
Like many other heroes from our brave armed forces, Khaled Badah Al-Otaibi is not a face seen on television, in newspapers, or on social media platforms. Yet, he is vividly present with Allah first, and in the fair Kuwaiti history whose records do not forget the names of those who stood firm on the day of the Iraqi invasion and remained steadfast, nor those who returned as liberators among the valiant Kuwaiti forces.
I have written many times about the necessity of establishing a photographic museum dedicated to the heroes of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces who fought in Kuwait’s major battles. These include the battles to repel Iraqi aggression attempts when Kuwait declared its independence in 1961; the silent battle in 1973 against Iraqi treachery; the Arab wars against the Zionist entity; the evil Iraqi invasion; and the Kuwait Liberation War. Such a museum would feature photographs and biographies of the soldiers and officers who participated in these battles, including martyrs, those who passed away later, and those still alive.
I have always admired Khaled Badah Al-Otaibi’s culture. Despite not having attended university, he managed to educate himself in a way that led me to repeatedly suggest he pursue a career in journalism. He was distinguished by his kind heart and his good relationships with everyone. Despite his physical strength and strict military demeanor, he was humble toward the young, compassionate toward workers, and merciful toward their weaknesses.
In our last meeting, before he departed for France to continue his treatment, we spoke at length about childhood memories and various other recollections. I was greatly pleased to see a smile on his face, and I did not know it was our final farewell. On the day he arrived in Paris, I recorded a long audio message for him, containing anecdotes, stories, jokes, and prayers, all aimed at boosting his morale.
In recent years, we did not meet frequently due to the circumstances of our work, but our spirits remained close. A friendship spanning more than 40 years will not end, God willing. Khaled Badah will always remain in my heart, and I will include him, God willing, in the daily prayers and supplications, hoping that Allah Almighty accepts us all.
We ask Allah for mercy, forgiveness, and the gardens of eternity for you, my dear friend, and for your family and brothers, whom I consider true brothers not born of my mother. “Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.”
Daham Al-Qahtani
