Stefanus Nashama
The Namibian Defence Force (NDF) has honoured and acknowledged its generals and other senior officers with medals for their achievements and contributions to the military’s service.
Speaking at the medal parade ceremony yesterday, Chief of the Namibian Defence Force, Air Marshal Martin Pinehas, said military medals are a central and instrumental part of military life presented to officers who have made exclusive commitments to their assigned duties and functions within the Namibian NDF.
“Honoring and awarding of medals is a military tradition that has persisted over the years, dating back many decades and centuries,” Pinehas said.
According to Pinehas, medals were presented to soldiers who have served for 10-, 20-, and 30 years in the force, recognizing the long service, dedication, bravery, and heroic sacrifices they have made in the military.
“Medals are offered as a tribute and homage to individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving the country and the nation at large,” he said.
He noted that military medals reflect an accomplishment custom, one of the cornerstones on which military pride and morale are built.
At the same time, he informed that the NDF has carried out its mandate with competence and dedication since its inception in 1990.
Pinehas used the platform to remind soldiers of the NDF’s participation in Cambodia in 1992 as part of the peacekeeping contingent to maintain international peace and security. This, he said, was a collective and immense participation, urging for continuous involvement in numerous missions and exercises.
He appealed to NDF members to carry out their duties professionally and serve the force and the Namibian people.
“Be selfless, work hard, and make a positive impact on the growth of the force,” he encouraged.
Pinehas concluded by calling for inspiration to the young soldiers under the command of those who received medals and requested them to lead by example at all times under the military disciplinary code.
According to the NDF Spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Tangeni Shikomba, 16 NDF service medals were given to 16 soldiers.
This comprises 14 medals awarded to male soldiers and two presented to female soldiers, he added.
