Army gives recognition to wounded soldiers

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 30, 2020): Army gives recognition to wounded soldiers

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 30 -- The 901st Infantry (Fight’Em) Brigade of the Philippine Army conferred wounded personnel medals to the two soldiers who were wounded in action in the recent armed encounter against the Communist Terrorist Group, on July 21, 2020 in Alegria town, this province.

The awarding was made during the visit of 901Bde Commanding Officer Colonel George L. Banzon at the Caraga Regional Hospital in Surigao City where the wounded personnel are currently confined and recuperating from their incurred slight gunshot injuries.

Conferred with the award are Private First Class Kevin Cabugsa and Private First Class Jose Isagani De Guzman, both assigned with the 30th Infantry (Python) Battalion.

The soldiers sustained injuries in the recent encounter against more or less 30 members of the Communist Terrorist Group that resulted in the neutralization of one female communist terrorist and the recovery of five high-powered firearms in Barangay Camp Edward, Alegria town, Surigao del Norte on July 20.

In his statement, Col. Banzon praised the wounded soldiers for their heroism and bravery in the performance of their sworn duty.

He further stressed that the actions displayed by the wounded personnel manifest the professionalism of every soldier who continue to risk their lives just to ensure the safety and security of everyone.

Col. Banzon mentioned that medals are not just being awarded because the soldiers became triumphant and survived any fierce battle but these are reminders of the high price that soldiers have to pay in order for our countrymen to continue living in peace and enjoy the freedom they deserve.

“Our injured soldiers took the risks and fought gallantly to preserve peace in Surigao del Norte. As professional soldiers, we are and will forever be grateful for their selfless service. Their acts of bravery must serve as a reminder for all of us that we are enjoying peace because somebody else is willing to sacrifice,” Col. Banzon said.

The Wounded Personnel Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines who are injured or killed in combat. (901st Infantry Brigade/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1048434