Khairul Alam: In a notable recognition of their dedication and service, 199 members of the Bangladesh Navy’s Force Marine Unit (BNFMU-8), deployed as part of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in South Sudan, were awarded UN Peacekeeping Medals.
The award ceremony took place on Tuesday (September 12th) in Juba, South Sudan, where the contingent of BNFMU-8 is stationed.
Lieutenant General Mohan Subramanian, the Force Commander of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), attended the event as the chief guest and presented the UN Peacekeeping Medals to the 199 personnel from the Bangladesh Navy who have been contributing to peacekeeping operations in the region.
During the ceremony, Lieutenant General Subramanian praised the exceptional contributions of the Bangladesh Navy contingent, emphasizing their courage and expertise in conducting operations in challenging environments and transporting vital supplies, including fuel, food, and other essential items, along the Nile River.
He expressed gratitude to the Bangladesh Navy and the government for their support in UN peacekeeping efforts and hoped for continued cooperation.
The Chief of the Naval Staff’s Representative Team, Rear Admiral Abdullah Al Mamun, ANM, and other dignitaries representing the United Nations, the South Sudan Armed Forces, and the UNPOL Police Commissioner, Christine Fossen, along with Major General Moe Manas and other senior officials of the South Sudanese Armed Forces, were also present at the ceremony.
The Bangladesh Navy contingent in South Sudan plays a crucial role in implementing the United Nations mandate by patrolling a vast stretch along the Nile River and successfully conducting 50 Logistic Operations (Operation Lifeline).
Their dedication and commitment to peacekeeping efforts in the challenging environment of South Sudan have been highly commended.