TWO soldiers, who were wounded, in recent clashes were awarded medal by the Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) for gallantry in action against lawless elements in the region.
Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega, Westmincom chief, led the awarding of medal on Monday, May 27, to the two awardee-soldiers, who are confined at the Camp Navarro General Hospital in this city.
Colonel Gerry Besana, Westmincom information officer, named the soldier-awardees as Private First Class (PFC) June Anthony Antipuesto of the Army’s 44th Infantry Battalion and PFC Niel Bendicto of the 13th Special Forces Company under the 6th Special Forces Battalion.
Besana said the two received the Wounded Personnel Medal (WPM).
Besana said Antipuesto was recognized for his gallantry in action during a firefight against some 30 New People’s Army rebels on May 11, this year, in the village of Diampak, Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Besana said the 44th Infantry Battalion troops were conducting focused military operations when they clash against the NPA rebels.
Besana said Benedicto was awarded WPM for his bravery exhibited during a firefight against 30 Abu Sayyaf Group bandits led by Mundi Sawadjaan on Thursday, May 25, in the village of Igasan, Patikul, Sulu.
The two wounded soldiers also received financial assistance during the awarding ceremony.
“The award is our way of acknowledging their dedication and selfless service to the people and the state,” Dela Vega said.
“May this award motivate them to be more steadfast in fulfilling their mandate,” he added. (SunStar Philippines)