27 March 2025
A ceremony to confer military gallantry honorary medals on recipients took place at Zeyathiri Beikman in Nay Pyi Taw this afternoon, with an address by Chairman of State Administration Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Thadoe Maha Thray Sithu Thadoe Thiri Thudhamma Min Aung Hlaing.
Also present at the ceremony were Daw Kyu Kyu Hla, wife of the Senior General, SAC Vice Chairman Deputy Commanderin-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Vice-Senior General Thiri Pyanchi Maha Thray Sithu Soe Win and his wife Daw Than Than Nwe, Chief of the General Staff (Army, Navy and Air) General Zeya Kyaw Htin Thray Sithu Kyaw Swa Lin and his wife, Commander-in-Chief (Navy) Admiral Zeya Kyaw Htin Htein Win and his wife, Commander-in-Chief (Air) General Zeya Kyaw Htin Sithu Tun Aung and his wife, union-level dignitaries and their wives, senior military officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief and their wives, title recipient officers and others and inheritors.
First, the Senior General delivered a spoke of honour, saying that on this auspicious occasion of the 80th Anniversary of Armed Forces Day, gallantry medals of honour, recognized as symbols of the Tatmadaw’s valour and capabilities, will be awarded to those who selflessly dedicated themselves to the nation and people without regard for sacrifice of lives.
Myanmar has a strong historical evidence of producing numerous heroes, providing undeniable evidence of its proud heritage. Honesty, humility, compassion, and righteousness are distinctive and deeply ingrained characteristics of the people.
However, when faced with injustice, they have repeatedly showed off their rightful resistance and unwavering courage in defending the national pride and dignity. Whenever nationality, religion, or sovereignty is threatened, the courageous generations of Myanmar have steadfastly upheld and defended their legacy, refusing to bow down to oppression. Their unwavering patriotism serves as an inspiring example for future generations.
Tatmadaw members have always demonstrated great courage in overcoming any destructive hreats to the nation and their people. Likewise, they have also strived to adapt and innovate in response to advancing technologies. Therefore, not only are distinctions awarded for bravery, but also for excellence in the fields of science and technology. As such, 22 individuals will be honoured with gallantry medals in recognition of their outstanding capabilities at today’s ceremony.
The government appreciates the contributions of individuals from various sectors including social affairs, the economy, science and technology, and sports who work tirelessly for national stability and development.
Given the current situation in Myanmar, the Tatmadaw has been serving its duties more intensively than before, working tirelessly day and night. In addition to national defence responsibilities, it is also engaged in training exercises and public welfare activities.
Furthermore, the Tatmadaw is actively participating in the implementation of the country’s Roadmap and objectives.
The efforts made to ensure the security and stability of the people’s lives, as well as the economic and social development of the nation, reflect the Tatmadaw’s true stance and commitment.At present, as everyone knows that efforts are being made to organize a multi-party democratic general election. In order to ensure that the election is free and fair, it is essential for entire ethnic people to work together in unity. Since the true strength of the nation lies within the country, this collective strength must not go to waste.
Every citizen must contribute to the well-being of the nation, as only through such collective efforts can the country move forward toward a genuine and disciplined democratic state.
The foundation for a country’s development lies in stability and the absence of armed conflict.
Only through achieving peace can we effectively construct essential roads, infrastructure, and bridges, enhance trade, and meet the education, healthcare, and social needs of the local population. Furthermore, this stability will enable us to engage in international trade with greater confidence.
Conversely, when driven by narrow ethnic perspectives, self-interest, and the misuse of ideological or ethnic labels to justify destructive actions, it is the lives of the local population that suffer the most. It is the duty of our military and security forces to ensure the protection necessary to prevent such losses. Our country possesses significant advantages, including a strategic geographical location, abundant natural resources both above and below the ground, and fertile soil. These resources present opportunities for those seeking to exploit the nation’s potential. Additionally, the entire nation will foreverhonor the military personnel, their families, and the security forces who sacrificed their lives and well-being in safeguarding these nation’s advantages. They have protected and preserved the nation’s advantages from all forms of aggression by both domestic and foreign elements seeking to exploit them for their own selfish interests.
During the ceremony, individuals who received the Military Meritorious Service Medal, an honorary distinction for military valor, were recognized as exemplary citizens. These individuals demonstrated unwavering courage and a strong spirit, overcoming numerous challenges in their commitment to defending the nation and serving the people. Their actions in fulfilling their national defence duties were marked by outstanding bravery. They will forever be remembered for their unwavering determination and heroic spirit in diligently carrying out their duties. He encouraged the people to persist in their efforts to pass on the noble beliefs and principles of these brave and courageous individuals to future generations.
Following the ceremony, the Senior General awarded medals to the recipients of the Gallantry Medal which included one Major General, three Colonels, one Police Brigadier General, two Lieutenant Colonels, three Majors, two Majors/Captains, three Captains, one Company Quartermaster Sergeant, two Sergeants, two Corporals, and two Lance Corporals.
The Senior General and members then posed for a commemorative group photo with the officers, other ranks, and heirs who had received the Gallantry Medals.
Afterwards, the Senior General and other members hosted a tea party for the recipients of the Gallantry Medals. The Myawaddy Band, under the command of the Directorate of Public Relations and Psychological Warfare, Office of the Commander-in-Chief (Army), provided a performance featuring music and dance.
After the ceremony, the Senior General and other members warmly greeted the recipients of the military gallantry honorary medals.
