UN force honors Pinoy peacekeeper in Golan Heights

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 18): UN force honors Pinoy peacekeeper in Golan Heights

The United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) recently honored a Filipino member of the sixth Philippine Contingent to Golan Heights. Technical Sergeant Herman Galiza received the Peacekeeper Month Award from UNDOF chief Major General Iqbal Singh Singha in a simple ceremony held at the UNDOF Headquarters, Camp Fauoar, Syria.

According to Commanding Officer of the Philippine Contingent Lieutenant Colonel Nolie Anquillano, Galiza received said award for his exemplary performance and devotion to duty rendered as bus driver for the Austrian and Croatian Contingents rotation convoy from Camp Faouar to Damascus International Airport on November 28, 2012.

The convoy, comprised of 25 vehicles, came under heavy fire by anti-government forces while on its way to the airport. Galiza immediately accelerated the vehicle to secure and keep his 14 Austrian passengers safe and out of danger.

“This award will reflect on how the Philippine Contingent to Golan Heights performed well in its mandated tasks and mission. Likewise, this will boost the morale of the officers, men and women of the Philippine Battalion,” Anquillano said. The Peacekeeper of the Month Award is usually granted to the deserving soldier in UNDOF for exemplary performance of duty.

Meanwhile, Philippine Ambassador to Israel Generoso D.G. Calonge also commended Galiza’s bravery and exemplary performance in the line of duty. “He highlighted the gallantry and selflessness of each and every Filipino soldier at home or anywhere in the world. He truly deserves the award, commendation and recognition of the Community of Nations. The Philippines is proud of you,” Calonge said.

Ambassador Calonge also acknowledged the rest of the Philippine Contingent in the Golan.  The sixth Philippine Contingent to Golan Heights assumed peacekeeping duties November 19, 2012.

http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=241358479293