From the Website of AFP
Story Links: http://www.afp.mil.ph/index.php/8-afp-news/217-scout-rangers-honor-outstanding-musangs-in-64thanniversary
Among the awardees for heroism is
Captain Franco F. Baylon who received the Gold Cross Medal for gallantry
in action during an encounter with about 100 Abu Sayyaf bandits in
April. Despite being wounded after exposing himself to enemy fire, he
ably led the 13th Scout Ranger Company to counter the enemy thereby neutralizing 11 and wounding eight others.
Story Links: http://www.afp.mil.ph/index.php/8-afp-news/217-scout-rangers-honor-outstanding-musangs-in-64thanniversary
CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The
First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSRR), one of the country’s elite military
forces honored its outstanding members during the celebration of its 64th founding anniversary in Camp Tecson, San Miguel, Bulacan, yesterday (November 25).
Brigadier General Eduardo B. Davalan,
FSRR Regiment Commander led the awarding ceremony that was held at the
FSRR Camp’s multi-purpose hall.
With its theme, “64 Years of Solid
Fellowship and Leading Upfront”, the FSRR recognized the accomplishments
of its distinguished personnel both in combat and admin duties.
Also receiving the same award is
Sergeant Neil M. Silos for leading his men against more or less 50 Abu
Sayyaf bandits on October 2013. Despite having two wounded personnel, he
inspired his men to hold their positions preventing the enemy from
penetrating their sector during a five-hour firefight without
reinforcement. His leadership saved the lives of his men and led to the
neutralization of one Abu Sayyaf member and wounding of two others.
The Bronze Cross Medal, an award for
non-combat heroism was given to Sgt. Rolando L. Castillo. He was cited
for his heroic acts while saving the lives of hapless students who were
caught by a flash flood at the Madlum River. As a rescue diver, he
courageously conducted several dives into the raging river which
contributed to the rescue of two students and recovery of seven
cadavers.
Receiving the Military Merit Medal for
meritorious performance of duty are Captain Marlon F Reyes Jr., 1Lt Mark
Anthony E. Ninalga, Captain Don Arian A. Cabotaje, Captain Andy
Lawrence C. Acapulco, 1Lt Roy Ryan O. Bauding, 1Lt Armelyn O. Dela Cruz,
Sgt. Wilfredo J. Estabillo, and Cpl Ruben M. Lopez.
Captain Baylon was also awarded a plaque
of merit for being the junior officer of the year. Another recipient
was SSg. Joel R. Bermeo for having the best overall performance in the
operations among the enlisted personnel.
Musang Legends
This year’s anniversary was also a tribute to the forefathers of the FSRR who have set the elite force on what it is today.
Leading the honorees was Brigadier General Cirilo O. Oropesa who was also the guest of honor and speaker during the ceremony.
Oropesa was among the first few members
of the FSRR and was one of the first staff officers to compose the Scout
Ranger Training Unit, the forerunner of the elite force.
For living up to the finest warrior
tradition of the Scout Ranger and continuously inspiring present
members, Oropesa along with BGen. Ramon L. Cannu (Ret), Col. Daniel B.
Labrado (Ret), and BGen Peter H. Espadero was awarded the Distinguished
Scout Ranger Plaque joining the ranks of other Musang Legends.
Considered as the most popular Scout
Ranger, General Julius Javier has been proudly raising the Musang banner
since his daring feats and unrivaled combat accomplishments in the 70’s
and 80’s.
Javier who earned the moniker “Living
Legend” has survived ambushes unscathed; repulsed an overwhelming enemy
attack; faced bullets to rescue wounded soldiers; led a seven-man team
of Rangers to infiltrate and capture communist rebels; and convinced an
MNLF commander to surrender along with his followers and firearms.
He is also highly-regarded by his fellow
soldiers being promoted to a full colonel just 13 years after
graduating from his class.
Other notable Scout Rangers are Medal of
Valor awardees Captain Cirilito Sobejana of the 1st Scout Ranger
Company and Captain Robert Edward Lucero of the 6th Scout Ranger
Company. Both were awarded for exemplary leadership and courage under
intense battle against the enemy in 1995 and 1996 respectively.
Partner Stakeholders
Also awarded were civilian partners who
showed extraordinary commitment and active support to the FSRR’s efforts
in fulfilling the IPSP campaign towards just and lasting peace.
The recipients of the plaque of
appreciation were the Hero Foundation, Inc.; Doctor Gail T. Ilagan,
Director of the Ateneo de Davao University’s Center of Psychological
Extension and Research Services; and Mrs. Yolanda C. Barela.
The FSRR was founded on November 25,
1950 under the command of former AFP Vice Chief of Staff and Defense
Secretary Rafael M. Ileto.
The elite force which is known for its
specialization in anti-guerilla warfare was created to counter the
Hukbalahap Guerillas and its rebellion in the 1950’s.
Now on its 64th year, the
FSRR is more invigorated to conduct focused military operations against
armed threat and terrorist groups in the country in support of the AFP’s
internal security campaign for just and lasting peace.
AFP Websites
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