Army commemorates and honors Marawi Heroes

06 OCt 18 Marawi Heroes

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila- The Philippine Army in a simple rite commemorated the liberation of Marawi City and paid tribute to the soldiers for their courage and heroism at the Libingan ng Mga Bayani, Taguig City on October 05, 2018.

The commemoration started with the inauguration and unveiling of Marawi murals which was spearheaded by no less than the Commanding General Philippine Army, Lieutenant General Rolando Joselito D. Bautista. Along with him were the different commanders that served under him and dependents of soldiers who perished during the campaign. The establishment of murals aims to preserve and instill particularly to the future generation the gallantry and heroism of our soldiers who did supreme sacrifices for the love of country and freedom.

Subsequently, a wreath laying ceremony followed which was also led by CGPA and other Joint Task Force Commanders as a tribute to the 165 fallen heroes of Marawi. A floral offerings was also tendered by the families and friends of the fallen including the officers, enlisted personnel and civilian employee of the Command at the “Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.”

The CGPA also took the opportunity to bestow streamers to the various units that immensely contributed to the campaign. All the component units that comprised the Task Force Marawi were present during the ceremony including representatives from the Philippine Air Force, Philippine Navy, Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine National Police.

The activity served as a gathering for the liberators and dependents of soldiers who unfortunately did not survive the fateful event. Emotions filled the air during the ceremonial wreath laying especially when the bugle sounded the “Taps”. Moreso, when stories behind the lines were shared and narrated by several speakers who had the actual experience of what transpired in the main battle area.

Major General Robert M. Arevalo, Vice Commander, Philippine Army mentioned in his welcome remarks that, “today’s event greatly shaped the defense and security posture of our country. The horrible crisis turned into an environment of opportunities which unites the Filipinos as a single force, which in the end earned the respect and admiration of the entire world.”

For his part, Lieutenant General Bautista said that, “our valiant fallen heroes have already done their part and it is high-time for us to do ours. The road to victory is an arduous trek, but as long as we have the support of the people and community, nothing is impossible. Let us march in unison in drawing the same strength and bravery from their legacy of safeguarding the liberty and stability of our nation.”#

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