Military Merit medals for PH soldier-paddlers

MANILA—Eleven soldiers who are part of the celebrated Cobra Philippine dragon boat team would be awarded Military Merit Medals for their “meritorious and exceptional” achievement in the world championships in Florida last week.

The soldiers, led by team manager Army Maj. Harold Cabunoc and team captain Army Sgt. Usman Anterola, won five gold and two silver medals in seven events during the 10th International Dragon Boat Federation World Championships in Tampa Bay from August1 to 7.

Known as the “Dragon Warriors,” the team also set two new world records as it bested teams from 17 nations including Australia, Italy and the United States.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines announced the soldiers will receive their medals during flag-raising rites at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City Monday.

The team is composed of personnel from the military and the Philippine Coast Guard.

Of the 11 military personnel in the team, eight are from the Army, two from the Air Force and one from the Navy.

In a statement before he left for the US, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Eduardo Oban Jr. said the team “exemplified discipline, determination and teamwork that earned them international recognition and distinct honor not only for the AFP but for the Filipino people.”

“They will serve as an inspiration to the AFP as the Filipino soldiers continue to perform their sworn duty in service to the nation.”