Wounded soldiers receive medal symbolizing Gallantry, Heroism and Professionalism

SAN MATEO, Isabela- The four Wounded in Action soldiers of 95th Infantry Battalion received a Wounded Personnel Medal today, Aug. 16, 2021at  Camp Melchor F Dela Cruz Station Hospital, 5th Infantry Division (5ID), Gamu, Isabela.

MGen. Laurence E. Mina, commander of 5ID after pinning the medals said, “Your bravery and heroism are duly recognized not only by the Philippine Army but also by the locals. This medal symbolizes your gallantry and your love for our country and people. You chose to carry on the fight despite being wounded”.

To recall, a 30-minute firefight between the government’s troops and the Communist New Peoples Army Terrorists (CNTs) in Brgy. Capellan City of Ilagan took place on Aug. 13, 2021. After the encounter, the four wounded soldiers were carried by the air asset of the Tactical Operation Group 2 for medical attention. High-powered firearms, other war materials and CNT belongings were recovered at the site.

One of the WIA soldiers said, “Hindi na takot ‘yong sumagi sa isip ko. Habang nararamdaman ko yung sakit, doon ko naman hinuhugot ang tapang ko upang samahan ang mga tropa na nakikipaglaban pa rin sa mga NPA. ‘yong pagbuwis ng buhay ay naka-angkla na yan mula nang piliin ko na pumasok sa organization.” [Fear didn’t crossed my mind while enduring the pain of my wound. Instead, I drew here my bravery to accompany my fellow soldiers and continue fighting against the NPA. Sacrificing my own life is a choice I made when I entered the organization.]

The medal is a symbol of gallantry and heroism in protecting the people against the threats of terrorists and professionalism in doing their sworn duty.

At present, the four soldiers are still under medical observation but are all in a stable condition.# Mae Barangan w/lines from Div. of Public Affairs Office, 5ID