On Wednesday 13th May, EUFOR held an international medal parade in Camp Butmir. During the ceremony, more than 400 soldiers from 10 different nations within EUFOR received the Common Security and Defence Policy Medal for Operation Althea.
The ceremony was attended by senior military and diplomatic representatives. While addressing the parade, COM EUFOR Major General Maurizio Fronda thanked the medal recipients by saying:
“Today’s parade is important because it formally recognizes the contribution each of you has made to the success of EUFOR. On your medal you will see the Latin words “Pro Pace Unum” — United for Peace. Each one of you is equally important today. You represent the clear and positive commitment of your governments and your armed forces to EUFOR and to the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina”.
“Your presence here has strengthened stability and reinforced confidence in EUFOR’s role in maintaining a safe and secure environment. You embody the values and principles that guide this mission and reflect the international community’s continued dedication to the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina” Major General Fronda added.
The Common Security and Defence Policy Medal for Operation Althea was first awarded in 2004 and it is an international military decoration awarded to individuals, both military and civilians who have served within CSDP mission. It is inscribed with the Latin phrase “Pro pace unum” meaning “United for peace”. The Medal is awarded by the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Mrs. Kaja Kallas.
The European Union is currently executing 21 CSDP Missions and Operations with this mission, Operation Althea, being the first one and also the largest military mission.
