Catbalogan City, Samar – At least five soldies of the 8th Infantry Division has received an award for their significant accomplishments in the fight against insurgents in Eastern Visayas.
Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. lauded the soldiers of the 8th Infantry Division for their significant performances of the troops.
A Gold Cross Medal was awarded to 1stLt. Ricardo Barnido in recognition of his gallantry in action that led tothe successful neutralization of a Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) and the capture of M16 rifle and other war materials.2nd Lt. Mesias Burgos, Staff Sgt. Angelo Aurelio and Cpl. Lionel Ace Fragoalso received the Gold Cross Medal for their heroic achievement in the neutralization of one CNT and capture of one M16 rifle.Another Gold Cross Medal was awarded to Cpl. Isagani Balmes for the successful operation that led to the recovery of six high-powered firearms.
Gen. Brawner also led the donning of ranks of newly commissioned officers in the Reserve Force, Armed Forces of the Philippines.
“A lot depends on us members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Let us continue with our task and let us do it with urgency. Huwag na tayong pumayag na marami pang sundalo ang mamatay, marami pang pamilya natin ang nababahala, nagwoworry for us habang andito tayo sa field. Tapusin na natin so that makapagshift na rin tayo totally to territorial defense,” Gen. Brawner said.