• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Two military officers and three enlisted personnel assigned at the Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion (IB) have been conferred recently with Silver Wing Medals.
The award recognizes their accomplishments during the successful aerial flight and operations in a series of encounters with remnants of the New People’s Army in Barangay Pinapugasan, Escalante City, Negros Occidental last month.
The award is given by the Armed Forces of the Philippines for “meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight and a single act of merit for participation in sustained operations activities against the enemy, while in aerial flight.”
Cash assistance were also given to four Army soldiers, who were injured in the series of gunbattles, that also resulted in the killing of three rebel remnants and recovery of 21 firearms, a statement from the 79IB said.
Lt. Col. Arnel Calaoagan, commander of the 79IB, led the pinning of the unit seal to newly-assigned officers and enlisted personnel and in honoring retiring SSgt. Wave Mabit for his exemplary service and dedication to duty.
The pinning of the 79IB Masaligan seal signifies the unit’s acceptance of the newly-assigned officers and enlisted personnel, and encourages them to be steadfast in attaining the unit’s mission in sustaining the gains for a state of stable internal peace and security in northern Negros. | GB
