Roukoz surrounded by community members at Marriot Hotel, Detroit

DETROIT — Under the title “Heroes don’t tire and don’t retire”, the Lebanese American Council for Democracy invited the Lebanese American community to honor retired Brigadier General Chamel Roukoz at the Marriot Hotel at the Renaissance Center on Saturday. 

Roukoz was on a North American tour that included Detroit, Boston, Houston, Los Angeles, Washington D.C. and Montreal.

Beginning the evening with the both the Lebanese and American National anthems, a multitude of community leaders, officials, activists, entrepreneurs and Lebanese political party representatives warmly welcomed Roukoz.

Following a moment of silence for fallen Lebanese civilians and servicemen, the gala’s emcee, Nita Jreijeh, introduced the general. A short documentary film about Roukoz’s military and academic achievements was previewed, portraying him as an exceptional army leader who spearheaded counter terrorism efforts in Lebanon.

The film also showed that Roukoz initiated sport activities designed to bridge the gap and mend broken relationships between civilians and the military community.

The documentary included a segment of his retirement speech, in which he proclaimed that his stepping down from his army position was not a relegation, but an elevation in his status as a civilian who works diligently against the corruption and sectarianism. He promised that he will uncompromisingly serve his nation under the Lebanese constitution.

At the end of the event, Roukoz called for a political movement by the Lebanese people to restore their country to its glory days. He said political disagreements are an aspect of democracy, but if they turn into deep disputes, they become a form of dictatorship.

He urged the Lebanese people at home and abroad not to ignore the power of their vote, which could result in a positive transformation in the government that works in the favor of the people.

He stressed that Lebanese politicians need to strongly and honestly push for the development of a modern electoral law.

Roukoz criticized the sectarian considerations that lead to the political
failures.

He added that sectarian and partisan agendas work against establishing fruitful dialogue between Lebanese parties for the interest of the country as a whole.

Roukoz said current Lebanese government does not represent its people due to limitations of voting rights and systematic favoritism of certain groups within the country.