24th ‘Wildcat” Battalion celebrates 66th anniversary

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 23): 24th ‘Wildcat” Battalion celebrates 66th anniversary

The 24th ‘Wildcat’ Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army celebrated with 66th founding anniversary with service for the people and for the soldiers themselves.

Lt.Col. Thomas Dominic B. Baluga, Battalion Commander, said the 66th anniversary celebration is a gift to the soldiers themselves after having been confronted by a series of combat operations. The Battalion awarded medals of valor to their front-liners in recent operations.

The soldiers were also treated to a free medical and dental check-up by the Provincial Health Office headed by Dr. Maria Cristina V. Cabrera.

As a love offering, the soldiers participated in a blood-letting activity with the Philippine National Red Cross headed by Ivy Venus. S. Avendano.

The anniversary celebration was also an opportunity for the Wildcats to recognize the support of the stakeholders with whom they have worked closely. Special tokens of gratitude were given to Gen. Angelito M. De Leon of the 7th Infantry Division, PA, for his all-out support to the Wildcats; to Governor Maria Jocelyn V. Bernos, and to the municipal mayors of Tineg, San Juan, Lagangilang, Lacub, Licuan-Baay, Sallapadan, and Bucloc.

Dr. Paulina Sawadan, a retired regional education supervisor, who has constantly lectured the soldiers about regional autonomy and Cordillera culture, was given special recognition.

The celebration was also a reunion of former infantry officials with former Brigade Commander, Gen. Loreto Rirao and former Battalion Commander, Col. Ignacio Madriaga who helped Abra in its Peace Program.

In his message, De Leon who served Abra through the Infantry related, “…Being deployed in Abra is very challenging in normal situations not only due to the NPAs but on elections which are doubly challenging. But it is good to see the developments now. And I am proud of the 24th IB because it continues to give honor to the Army and continues to look after the welfare of its people.”

The Governor also commended the soldiers for their special efforts and patience in working hard for the up-keep of peace and order in Abra. “…Like and love ko kayong lahat dahil you love your work. Dito, dati laging magulo, slowly nawawala na ang bad image ng Abra. You helped shake-off the bad image of Abra. You are giving your tomorrow for our today.”

She gave two units of 9mm pistol to the Battalion to be raffled to the soldiers as her special gift on the Wildcats 66th anniversary celebration.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/111503217460/-24th-wildcat-battalion-celebrates-66th-anniversary