Fleet-Marine Troops Recognized at Western Mindanao Command

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (November 14, 2017 AFP) - Fleet-Marine Troops headed by the Commander of Naval Forces Western Mindanao, Rear Adm. Rene V. Medina AFP, were recognized and given awards by none other than the Commander of Western Mindanao Command, Lt. Gen. Carlito G. Galvez Jr. AFP, on Monday (Nov. 13) at the Western Mindanao Command grounds, military official said.

It was a different Monday for the officers of Naval Forces Western Mindanao as they observe the Monday flag raising not in the grounds of Naval Station Romulo Espaldon, but at the WesMinCom grounds to witness at the same time the awarding of Fleet-Marine personnel who accomplished outstanding feat in their own mission areas.

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“We would like to convey our congratulations to you and your troops for a job well done not only in Marawi but in your other areas of operation,” Lt. Gen. Galvez told the troops in formation.

“The Fleet-Marine contingent of the troops who fought in Marawi City have shown their gallantry in action. They were the first ones who cleared their sectors, including the bridges… Today, we are giving importance to them because they deserve this kind of recognition…. This is because of the sterling leadership and good management of our Commander NavForWeM.”

The General likewise spoke of the Admiral’s dedication to his duty and described how the latter would go to the farthest islands and be present in critical locations of his area of responsibility to personally oversee the welfare of his troops.

Rear Adm. Medina received a Command Plaque for his outstanding leadership and intelligence management skills as the Commander of Naval Forces Western Mindanao that led to the interception of the plan of the Daesh-inspired terrorists to gain control of Marawi city and the neutralizations of terrorists, rescue of hostages and recovery of assorted high-powered fire arms.

The Distinguished Navy Cross Medals were also given to the Marawi troopers for acts of courage and gallantry in the face of armed enemy during the conduct of Focused Military Operations (FMO) of Government Forces against the terrorist groups. This life-risking, intelligence driven operations and valiant acts to take hold of the enemy’s stronghold distinguished this men in combat, thus earning honor not only for themselves but also for the Philippine Navy and the AFP as a whole.

Moreover, Gold Cross Medals were awarded to the officers and men of the Fleet-Marine Team for their gallantry in action during an encounter with unidentified number of local terrorist group, and their courage and determination to seize and fiercely fight against LTGs during the Marawi City Crisis.

The General likewise acknowledged the recent accomplishment of the Fleet-Marime Team in rescuing the last of Vietnamese KVs. “As a Commander, I am very happy with your performance in rescuing the last of Vietnamese kidnap victims [from the hands of their captors].” The Vietnamese nationals were rescued by the operating elements of Naval Forces Western Mindanao and Joint Task Force Tawi Tawi at the vicinity off Kang Tipayan Island, Languyan, Tawi Tawi last Nov. 10, 2017.

“On behalf of Western Mindanao Command, we would like to dedicate this activity to NFWM and to all sailors and marines for a job well done,” he added as the simple but meaningful ceremony came to a close.

Giving recognition and awards to troops is one of the military customs that greatly boosts the morale of the soldiers. It is also one way to recognize their share of sacrifices for the liberation of Marawi City and for putting their lives at risk when duty calls for them to go and fight for the Armed Forces of the Philippines and for the Filipino people.