Title: Men of Valor
flipzi - May 26, 2009 08:03 PM (GMT)
http://geocities.com/strike_musangs
Weena Martillana
CORPORAL, PHILIPPINE ARMY
“For distinguishing himself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity, at the risk of his life and beyond the call of duty, for killing Huk leader Eddie Villapando at Barrio Tabon, Calawan, Laguna in December 1955. Conducting intelligence work for 3 months in a liquidation mission against Huk leader Eddie Villapando, Corporal Martillano of the 1st Scout Ranger Regiment worked with Technical Sergeant Francisco Camacho to penetrate Huk territory. They succeeded in killing Villapando and two others.
http://www.army.mil.ph/miscellaneous/valor_awardees.html
Reference: http://www.army.mil.ph
Francisco Camacho
TECHNICAL SERGEANT, PHILIPPINE ARMY
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in an encounter with the notorious Hukbalahap leader Eddie Villanpando, commander Guevarra and one bodyguard.” Tasked with the mission of liquidating huk leader Eddie Villapndo, Technical Sergeant Camacho along with Corporal Weene Martillana were able to penetrate the huk organization, gaining their confidence. Finding the right opportunity soon after, Villapando was successfully neutralized but Technical Sergeant Camacho was killed on the spot from retaliatory shots fired by the huks.
http://www.army.mil.ph/miscellaneous/valor_awardees.html
Cirilito E. Sobejana, PMA Class '97
CAPTAIN, 0-9786, PHILIPPINE ARMY
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty during an encounter with about 150 Abu Sayyaf kidnap gang members at Sitio Caro, Barangay Lower Kapayawan, Isabela, Basilan on 13 Scout Ranger Regiment, Philippine Army.
When task Group Panther received reports on the enemy concentration, it immediately dispatched one platoon under CAPTAIN SOBEJANA to check the area. Observing the position of the enemy, he sighted about 20 armed enemies loitering near a cluster of houses. After assessing the situation, he directed his men to attack. Alerted to the ensuing firefight, several Abu Sayyaf groups from nearby areas arrived to reinforce their comrades, cutting the troops from the supporting section. As the battle raged, firepower and numerical superiority of the enemy became apparent as members of the First Scout Ranger Company incurred casualties.
After two hours of continuous firefight, CAPTAIN SOBEJANA was hit in the lower right arm as he went for the radio of fallen soldier. Bravely holding his ground, he sustained a second bullet wound that almost severed his right arm. Still, he controlled all fire directions to best defend their position and repulse the encircling enemy. Even as a third bullet shattered his rifle, he never lost composure, though in pain. He repeatedly maneuvered around, exposing himself to enemy fire to direct the battle and operate the radio.
After almost four hours of intense fighting, armored reinforcements from the Task group Panther and the 4th Scout Ranger Company secured the area and evacuates the wounded. Reports placed the enemy casualties at 30 killed and confirmed number of wounded. By this gallantry, CAPTAIN SOBEJANA distinguished himself in combat, in keeping with the finest traditions of Filipino soldiery.
Reference: GENERAL ORDERS NUMBER 1314, dated 19 December 1974, General Headquarters, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City
http://www.geocities.com/fortdelpilar/sobejana.html
Herbert D. Dilag, PMA Class '98
SECOND LIEUTENANT, 0-12640, PHILIPPINE ARMY
For acts of conspicuous courage, gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty while serving as the Squad Leader of a "Suicide Squad". Of the First Scout Ranger Battalion, First Scout Ranger Regiment, Special Operations Command, Philippine Army, during the 3-day assault of Hill 898, Camp Abdurrajak, Punoh Mihaji, Isabela, Basilan on 28 to 30 April 2000. With the commencement of the 103rd Brigade's OPLAN "FINAL OPTION", the First Scout Ranger Battalion was directed to attack the highly fortified enemy positions being occupied by more or less 210 fully armed members of the Abu Sayyaf Group who were then holding in captivity 28 civilian hostages.
The 11th Scout Ranger Company spearheaded the attack with the team under SECOND LIEUTENANT DILAG, taking the lead. After a grueling trek along the 7-kilometer highly restrictive terrain and after bypassing 48 enemy improvised landmines, the troops were able to close-in on the northeastern portion of the enemy camp. On 280930 April 2000, the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion began the assault and a heavy firefight ensued. Though initially surprised the enemy was able to take advantage of its commanding position and confronted the government forces with stiff resistance. At 1630H, the enemy counterattacked in full force, killing 4 Scout Rangers and wounding 27 others.
In spite of the numerous casualties and heavy enemy volume of fires coming from cal. 50 Machineguns, 57RRs and the continuous explosion of grenades and dynamites near their positions, the leading elements under SECOND LIEUTENANT DILAG, fearlessly retaliated with accurate sniper fires which prevented the enemy from closing-in. Notwithstanding the heavy rains, hunger, tension and fatigue; and despite of numerous casualties, the Scout Rangers held on their ground and engaged the enemy with strong determination and ferocity for the next 24 hours. On 300530 April 2000, after sensing the seemingly insurmountable odds, MAJOR CALDEO, the Commanding Officer of the 1st scout Ranger Battalion, decided to execute the final assault with the organization of 2 "Suicide Squads". The squad, consisting of 14 volunteers, were tasked to perform an extremely risky mission of clearing the northeastern bunkers. Uncertain of what will happen to them, the members of the squad, left their valuables to their supporting comrades to be further given to their loved ones, in anticipation of their deaths. Undaunted by threat posed by the situation and unmindful of their own safety, the squads, headed by SECOND LIEUTENANT DILAG and SECOND LIEUTENANT GONZALES rushed-up the 80-meter, 80-degree slope and eventually assaulted the heavily fortified enemy defensive positions then carried out an intense bunker to bunker battle. With cunning stealth, the "Suicide Squads" were able to secure the northeastern tip of Hill 898 which was being defended by Khadafy Janjaland's group. This heroic and gallant act paved the way for the subsequent clearing of the remaining 3 clusters of enemy fortified defensive positions. After 4 hours of close combat, the squads forced the enemy to withdraw towards the western direction.
Reference: GENERAL ORDERS NUMBER 768, dated 4 July 2000, General Headquarters, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City
http://www.geocities.com/fortdelpilar/sobejana.html
Lt. Col. Noel Buan
2 SR Battalion Cmdr
http://www.gov.ph/news/default.asp?newsid=4900
GMA confers medals to Buan, other AFP officers who killed Abu Sayyaf terrorists
www.gov.ph
Tuesday the 31st of August, 2004
EDWIN ANDREWS AIR BASE, Zamboanga City—President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo today honored the military men who killed a senior Abu Sayyaf leader and his men recently and lauded their civilian informants in ceremonies held here this morning.
Their operation was a major victory in the fight against terrorism in the country and has raised the respect and confidence of the country’s allies in the global war against terrorism, the President noted.
Receiving the Distinguished Conduct Star Medal from the President was Lt. Col. Noel Buan. During the ceremony, the President upgraded the award to Medal of Valor in recognition of Buan’s distinguished service and bravery.
Buan, commander of the 1st Scout Ranger Regiment of the Philippine Army, headed the group that killed Abu Sayyaf leader Hamsirajih Sali who was wanted for a chain of kidnapping-for-ransom and terrorist activities in Mindanao. Sali carried a P5 million bounty on his head.
As a major and an intelligence officer, Buan was held prisoner of war by the New People’s Army and was released only after years of being held captive in Mindoro Oriental.
Awarded the Gold Cross Medal were Staff Sgt. Isidro Dindin and Cpl. Ernesto Estender who died in the encounter at Basilan. ... Their wives, Elsa and Amormia, received their medals.
"I would like to commend Col. Buan, our two martyrs, civilian informants and allies for their extremely valuable contribution to our war against terrorism," the President said.
Such actions of bravery by Buan and his men "have truly made our fight against terrorism very successful even compared to other nations," the President said.
Their bravery has helped in the positive assessment of the security situation in the country given by Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States, the President said.
"We consider this a validation of the gains we have accomplished in the global war against terrorism. We are confident that such an assessment will be backed up by concrete measures to bring in more investors to the country," the President noted in an official statement released in Manila.
The President also congratulated the Armed Forces of the Philippines headed by Chief of Staff Gen. Narciso Abaya, the AFP Southern Command headed by Gen. Roy Kyamko, and all the officers and enlisted personnel who did a great job.
"I am happy to highlight once again the success, bravery and martyrdom of our men in the field. To them we dedicate the victory we have against terrorism," the President said.
released 4/28/2004
Other Awardees and Who Are Recommended For the Awards
Based on Scout Ranger Clubhouse records.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PhilippineArmyScoutRangers/
TSgt Francisco Camacho FSRR
- killed Huk leader Cmdr Guevarra, Dec 1955. Awarded the MOV
Cpl Weene Martillana FSRR- Killed Huk leader Eddie Villapando in Laguna, 1955.Awarded the MOV
Cpt Cirilito E Sobejana FSRR- killed 30 Abu Sayyafs in Isabela, Basilan ,1995. awarded the MOV
Cpl Romualdo C Rubi FSRR- Killed NPA Cmdr Lima in Surigao del Norte, 1991. Awarded the MOV
Cpt Robert Edward M Lucero- CO, 6SRC,KIA - against MILF rebels in Carmen, North Cotobato, 1996. Awarded the MOV (posthumous)
Pfc Abner Eustaquio- of 15 SRC, wounded during Operation Daybreak, an operation to rescue US Hostages and a Filipina nurse from Abu Sayyaf bandits. Awarded the MOV
Cpt Jake Paler- Former CO, 18 SRC-KIA during the assault of Camp Abubakar in 2002. Jake is being recommended for MOV
Cpt Ruben Guinolbay- Course Director of SR class 142, ambushed by Abu Sayyaf rebels at Lamitan , Basilan. Outgunned ,they stood there ground even under intense fire, Guinolbay carried civilians to safety .He is recommended for MOV
Cpt Oliver Almonares- CO, 15SRC responsible for the rescue of american hostage Gracia Burnham and the recovery of bodies of Martin and Edibora. Recommended for MOV
Sgt Rodney Magbanua
- Team leader (wounded during the ops) - rescue of the Burnhams and Ms Yap from the Abu Sayyaf
Weena Martillana
CORPORAL, PHILIPPINE ARMY
“For distinguishing himself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity, at the risk of his life and beyond the call of duty, for killing Huk leader Eddie Villapando at Barrio Tabon, Calawan, Laguna in December 1955. Conducting intelligence work for 3 months in a liquidation mission against Huk leader Eddie Villapando, Corporal Martillano of the 1st Scout Ranger Regiment worked with Technical Sergeant Francisco Camacho to penetrate Huk territory. They succeeded in killing Villapando and two others.
http://www.army.mil.ph/miscellaneous/valor_awardees.html
Reference: http://www.army.mil.ph
Francisco Camacho
TECHNICAL SERGEANT, PHILIPPINE ARMY
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in an encounter with the notorious Hukbalahap leader Eddie Villanpando, commander Guevarra and one bodyguard.” Tasked with the mission of liquidating huk leader Eddie Villapndo, Technical Sergeant Camacho along with Corporal Weene Martillana were able to penetrate the huk organization, gaining their confidence. Finding the right opportunity soon after, Villapando was successfully neutralized but Technical Sergeant Camacho was killed on the spot from retaliatory shots fired by the huks.
http://www.army.mil.ph/miscellaneous/valor_awardees.html
Cirilito E. Sobejana, PMA Class '97
CAPTAIN, 0-9786, PHILIPPINE ARMY
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty during an encounter with about 150 Abu Sayyaf kidnap gang members at Sitio Caro, Barangay Lower Kapayawan, Isabela, Basilan on 13 Scout Ranger Regiment, Philippine Army.
When task Group Panther received reports on the enemy concentration, it immediately dispatched one platoon under CAPTAIN SOBEJANA to check the area. Observing the position of the enemy, he sighted about 20 armed enemies loitering near a cluster of houses. After assessing the situation, he directed his men to attack. Alerted to the ensuing firefight, several Abu Sayyaf groups from nearby areas arrived to reinforce their comrades, cutting the troops from the supporting section. As the battle raged, firepower and numerical superiority of the enemy became apparent as members of the First Scout Ranger Company incurred casualties.
After two hours of continuous firefight, CAPTAIN SOBEJANA was hit in the lower right arm as he went for the radio of fallen soldier. Bravely holding his ground, he sustained a second bullet wound that almost severed his right arm. Still, he controlled all fire directions to best defend their position and repulse the encircling enemy. Even as a third bullet shattered his rifle, he never lost composure, though in pain. He repeatedly maneuvered around, exposing himself to enemy fire to direct the battle and operate the radio.
After almost four hours of intense fighting, armored reinforcements from the Task group Panther and the 4th Scout Ranger Company secured the area and evacuates the wounded. Reports placed the enemy casualties at 30 killed and confirmed number of wounded. By this gallantry, CAPTAIN SOBEJANA distinguished himself in combat, in keeping with the finest traditions of Filipino soldiery.
Reference: GENERAL ORDERS NUMBER 1314, dated 19 December 1974, General Headquarters, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City
http://www.geocities.com/fortdelpilar/sobejana.html
Herbert D. Dilag, PMA Class '98
SECOND LIEUTENANT, 0-12640, PHILIPPINE ARMY
For acts of conspicuous courage, gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty while serving as the Squad Leader of a "Suicide Squad". Of the First Scout Ranger Battalion, First Scout Ranger Regiment, Special Operations Command, Philippine Army, during the 3-day assault of Hill 898, Camp Abdurrajak, Punoh Mihaji, Isabela, Basilan on 28 to 30 April 2000. With the commencement of the 103rd Brigade's OPLAN "FINAL OPTION", the First Scout Ranger Battalion was directed to attack the highly fortified enemy positions being occupied by more or less 210 fully armed members of the Abu Sayyaf Group who were then holding in captivity 28 civilian hostages.
The 11th Scout Ranger Company spearheaded the attack with the team under SECOND LIEUTENANT DILAG, taking the lead. After a grueling trek along the 7-kilometer highly restrictive terrain and after bypassing 48 enemy improvised landmines, the troops were able to close-in on the northeastern portion of the enemy camp. On 280930 April 2000, the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion began the assault and a heavy firefight ensued. Though initially surprised the enemy was able to take advantage of its commanding position and confronted the government forces with stiff resistance. At 1630H, the enemy counterattacked in full force, killing 4 Scout Rangers and wounding 27 others.
In spite of the numerous casualties and heavy enemy volume of fires coming from cal. 50 Machineguns, 57RRs and the continuous explosion of grenades and dynamites near their positions, the leading elements under SECOND LIEUTENANT DILAG, fearlessly retaliated with accurate sniper fires which prevented the enemy from closing-in. Notwithstanding the heavy rains, hunger, tension and fatigue; and despite of numerous casualties, the Scout Rangers held on their ground and engaged the enemy with strong determination and ferocity for the next 24 hours. On 300530 April 2000, after sensing the seemingly insurmountable odds, MAJOR CALDEO, the Commanding Officer of the 1st scout Ranger Battalion, decided to execute the final assault with the organization of 2 "Suicide Squads". The squad, consisting of 14 volunteers, were tasked to perform an extremely risky mission of clearing the northeastern bunkers. Uncertain of what will happen to them, the members of the squad, left their valuables to their supporting comrades to be further given to their loved ones, in anticipation of their deaths. Undaunted by threat posed by the situation and unmindful of their own safety, the squads, headed by SECOND LIEUTENANT DILAG and SECOND LIEUTENANT GONZALES rushed-up the 80-meter, 80-degree slope and eventually assaulted the heavily fortified enemy defensive positions then carried out an intense bunker to bunker battle. With cunning stealth, the "Suicide Squads" were able to secure the northeastern tip of Hill 898 which was being defended by Khadafy Janjaland's group. This heroic and gallant act paved the way for the subsequent clearing of the remaining 3 clusters of enemy fortified defensive positions. After 4 hours of close combat, the squads forced the enemy to withdraw towards the western direction.
Reference: GENERAL ORDERS NUMBER 768, dated 4 July 2000, General Headquarters, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City
http://www.geocities.com/fortdelpilar/sobejana.html
Lt. Col. Noel Buan
2 SR Battalion Cmdr
http://www.gov.ph/news/default.asp?newsid=4900
GMA confers medals to Buan, other AFP officers who killed Abu Sayyaf terrorists
www.gov.ph
Tuesday the 31st of August, 2004
EDWIN ANDREWS AIR BASE, Zamboanga City—President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo today honored the military men who killed a senior Abu Sayyaf leader and his men recently and lauded their civilian informants in ceremonies held here this morning.
Their operation was a major victory in the fight against terrorism in the country and has raised the respect and confidence of the country’s allies in the global war against terrorism, the President noted.
Receiving the Distinguished Conduct Star Medal from the President was Lt. Col. Noel Buan. During the ceremony, the President upgraded the award to Medal of Valor in recognition of Buan’s distinguished service and bravery.
Buan, commander of the 1st Scout Ranger Regiment of the Philippine Army, headed the group that killed Abu Sayyaf leader Hamsirajih Sali who was wanted for a chain of kidnapping-for-ransom and terrorist activities in Mindanao. Sali carried a P5 million bounty on his head.
As a major and an intelligence officer, Buan was held prisoner of war by the New People’s Army and was released only after years of being held captive in Mindoro Oriental.
Awarded the Gold Cross Medal were Staff Sgt. Isidro Dindin and Cpl. Ernesto Estender who died in the encounter at Basilan. ... Their wives, Elsa and Amormia, received their medals.
"I would like to commend Col. Buan, our two martyrs, civilian informants and allies for their extremely valuable contribution to our war against terrorism," the President said.
Such actions of bravery by Buan and his men "have truly made our fight against terrorism very successful even compared to other nations," the President said.
Their bravery has helped in the positive assessment of the security situation in the country given by Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States, the President said.
"We consider this a validation of the gains we have accomplished in the global war against terrorism. We are confident that such an assessment will be backed up by concrete measures to bring in more investors to the country," the President noted in an official statement released in Manila.
The President also congratulated the Armed Forces of the Philippines headed by Chief of Staff Gen. Narciso Abaya, the AFP Southern Command headed by Gen. Roy Kyamko, and all the officers and enlisted personnel who did a great job.
"I am happy to highlight once again the success, bravery and martyrdom of our men in the field. To them we dedicate the victory we have against terrorism," the President said.
released 4/28/2004
Other Awardees and Who Are Recommended For the Awards
Based on Scout Ranger Clubhouse records.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PhilippineArmyScoutRangers/
TSgt Francisco Camacho FSRR
- killed Huk leader Cmdr Guevarra, Dec 1955. Awarded the MOV
Cpl Weene Martillana FSRR- Killed Huk leader Eddie Villapando in Laguna, 1955.Awarded the MOV
Cpt Cirilito E Sobejana FSRR- killed 30 Abu Sayyafs in Isabela, Basilan ,1995. awarded the MOV
Cpl Romualdo C Rubi FSRR- Killed NPA Cmdr Lima in Surigao del Norte, 1991. Awarded the MOV
Cpt Robert Edward M Lucero- CO, 6SRC,KIA - against MILF rebels in Carmen, North Cotobato, 1996. Awarded the MOV (posthumous)
Pfc Abner Eustaquio- of 15 SRC, wounded during Operation Daybreak, an operation to rescue US Hostages and a Filipina nurse from Abu Sayyaf bandits. Awarded the MOV
Cpt Jake Paler- Former CO, 18 SRC-KIA during the assault of Camp Abubakar in 2002. Jake is being recommended for MOV
Cpt Ruben Guinolbay- Course Director of SR class 142, ambushed by Abu Sayyaf rebels at Lamitan , Basilan. Outgunned ,they stood there ground even under intense fire, Guinolbay carried civilians to safety .He is recommended for MOV
Cpt Oliver Almonares- CO, 15SRC responsible for the rescue of american hostage Gracia Burnham and the recovery of bodies of Martin and Edibora. Recommended for MOV
Sgt Rodney Magbanua
- Team leader (wounded during the ops) - rescue of the Burnhams and Ms Yap from the Abu Sayyaf
flipzi - May 26, 2009 08:22 PM (GMT)
http://www.geocities.com/ResearchTriangle/...3964/valor.html
Custodio J. Parcon Jr, PMA '87
CAPTAIN, 0-9702, PHILIPPINE NAVY (MARINES)
Captain Custodio J. Parcon Jr. was the commanding officer of the Philippine Marine Force Recon Company (61st Marine Company) during the operation to recover the kidnap victim on Basilan Island.
By direction of the President, pursuant to paragraph 1-6a, Section II, Chapter 1, AFP Regulations G131-053, General Headquarters, Armed Forces of the Philippines, dated 1 July 1986, the MEDAL FOR VALOR is hereby awarded to:
Captain Custodio J. Parcon Jr, PMA '87
CAPTAIN, 0-9702, PHILIPPINE NAVY (MARINES)
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty during a series of encounters against heavily armed Muslim Kidnapers at Barangay Kapayawan, Isabela, Basilan, from 7 to 15 May 1993. As the Commanding Officer, 61st Marine Reconnaissance Company tasked to infiltrate the Abu Sayyaf Camp Al Madinah and rescue victim Anthony Biel III, CAPTAIN PARCON JR led his men on a hazardous mission, pitting them against extremely fanatic and suicidal armed elements.
Infiltrating into the fortified enemy camp under cover of darkness, he and his men deactivated hundreds of mines laid along their route. On 8 May, he and his men engaged six armed enemies, instantly killing two and wounding two others. Through skillful direction of friendly fires maneuver, his men evaded detection and saved confusion within the enemy lines while dislodging Abu Sayyaf elements from each bunker in close quarter battle.
The next day, he saw armed men preparing for a counterattack. Employing accurate sniper fire, he and his men neutralized four kidnapers and wounded several others who scampered in various directions. At about 1500H on that same day, they were ambushed by the main body of Abu Sayyaf mujahideens, pinning down one section of his men in the middle of the enemy's killing zone. Unable to maneuver under intense enemy fire, he crawled towards the main enemy force amidst hail of machine gun and mortar fires, knocking down single-handedly the enemy bunkers along the way.
With enemy fires concentrated on his direction, his men were able to get out of the killing zone to deliver covering fires for his advance. He crept close to the enemy, lobbed a smoke grenade at their position to give the supporting helicopter gunship a clearer target. Finally, on 10 May, he and his men made the final assault on the enemy's main headquarters, which was defended by a 50 caliber heavy machinegun that delivered devastating fires on the advancing troops. Again, he single-handedly maneuvered forward and deliver fatal burst of fire to the enemy gunner, making the last defense of the Abu Sayyaf group to collapse, and forcing the remaining enemies to scamper in different directions, bringing with them their dead and wounded.
The capture of Camp Al Madinah and the neutralization of 46 Aby Sayyaf extremists greatly pressured the enemy to release Luis Anthony Biel III. Recovered from the camp were one 50 caliber machine gun, one light anti-tank weapon, two R2 Carbine rifle, one M1 Garrand rifle, undetermined number of live mortar rounds, several land mines/bombs, and voluminous documents. By these achievements, CAPTAIN PARCON distinguished himself in combat in keeping with the finest traditions of Filipino soldiery.
(Reference: GENERAL ORDERS NUMBER 1320, dated 20 December 1994, General Headquarters, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City)
http://www.geocities.com/fortdelpilar/parcon.html
Custodio J. Parcon Jr, PMA '87
CAPTAIN, 0-9702, PHILIPPINE NAVY (MARINES)
Captain Custodio J. Parcon Jr. was the commanding officer of the Philippine Marine Force Recon Company (61st Marine Company) during the operation to recover the kidnap victim on Basilan Island.
By direction of the President, pursuant to paragraph 1-6a, Section II, Chapter 1, AFP Regulations G131-053, General Headquarters, Armed Forces of the Philippines, dated 1 July 1986, the MEDAL FOR VALOR is hereby awarded to:
Captain Custodio J. Parcon Jr, PMA '87
CAPTAIN, 0-9702, PHILIPPINE NAVY (MARINES)
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty during a series of encounters against heavily armed Muslim Kidnapers at Barangay Kapayawan, Isabela, Basilan, from 7 to 15 May 1993. As the Commanding Officer, 61st Marine Reconnaissance Company tasked to infiltrate the Abu Sayyaf Camp Al Madinah and rescue victim Anthony Biel III, CAPTAIN PARCON JR led his men on a hazardous mission, pitting them against extremely fanatic and suicidal armed elements.
Infiltrating into the fortified enemy camp under cover of darkness, he and his men deactivated hundreds of mines laid along their route. On 8 May, he and his men engaged six armed enemies, instantly killing two and wounding two others. Through skillful direction of friendly fires maneuver, his men evaded detection and saved confusion within the enemy lines while dislodging Abu Sayyaf elements from each bunker in close quarter battle.
The next day, he saw armed men preparing for a counterattack. Employing accurate sniper fire, he and his men neutralized four kidnapers and wounded several others who scampered in various directions. At about 1500H on that same day, they were ambushed by the main body of Abu Sayyaf mujahideens, pinning down one section of his men in the middle of the enemy's killing zone. Unable to maneuver under intense enemy fire, he crawled towards the main enemy force amidst hail of machine gun and mortar fires, knocking down single-handedly the enemy bunkers along the way.
With enemy fires concentrated on his direction, his men were able to get out of the killing zone to deliver covering fires for his advance. He crept close to the enemy, lobbed a smoke grenade at their position to give the supporting helicopter gunship a clearer target. Finally, on 10 May, he and his men made the final assault on the enemy's main headquarters, which was defended by a 50 caliber heavy machinegun that delivered devastating fires on the advancing troops. Again, he single-handedly maneuvered forward and deliver fatal burst of fire to the enemy gunner, making the last defense of the Abu Sayyaf group to collapse, and forcing the remaining enemies to scamper in different directions, bringing with them their dead and wounded.
The capture of Camp Al Madinah and the neutralization of 46 Aby Sayyaf extremists greatly pressured the enemy to release Luis Anthony Biel III. Recovered from the camp were one 50 caliber machine gun, one light anti-tank weapon, two R2 Carbine rifle, one M1 Garrand rifle, undetermined number of live mortar rounds, several land mines/bombs, and voluminous documents. By these achievements, CAPTAIN PARCON distinguished himself in combat in keeping with the finest traditions of Filipino soldiery.
(Reference: GENERAL ORDERS NUMBER 1320, dated 20 December 1994, General Headquarters, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City)
http://www.geocities.com/fortdelpilar/parcon.html
flipzi - May 26, 2009 08:25 PM (GMT)
http://www.geocities.com/fortdelpilar/
The Medal of Valor is the highest military award given by the Armed Forces of the Philippines. It is the equivalent to the Congressional Medal of Honor of the United States of America. This award is given by direction of the Philippine President, in pursuance to paragraph 1-6a, Section II, Chapter 1, Armed Forces of the Philippines Regulations G131-053, General Headquarters, Armed forces of the Philippines, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, dated 1 July 1986.
Among the graduates of the Philippine Military Academy, nine are known to have received this prestigious award; three were graduates of the pre-war period (1914, 1915, and 1943) when it was then known as the Philippine Constabulary Academy, and 6 belonged to classes in the post-war period (1979, 1987, 1988, and 1998) with three recipients belonging to the Class of 1987. The following alumni were the recipients of the award:
Paulino T. Santos, Sr., PCA '14
Mariano N. Castaneda, Sr., PCA '15
Conrado D. Yap, PMA '43
Arturo B. Ortiz, PMA '79
Robert Edward Mina Lucero, PMA '87
Custodio J. Parcon, Jr., PMA '87
Cirilito E. Sobejana, PMA '87
Bartolome Vicente O. Bacarro, PMA '88
Herbert Diaz Dilag, PMA '98
The medal is the most prestigious award attainable by military personnel and is given to those who served their country with courage, daring initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger. It is also given in recognition of their gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their lives, above and beyond the call of duty which reflects the highest credit upon themselves and enhances the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
The Medal of Valor is the highest military award given by the Armed Forces of the Philippines. It is the equivalent to the Congressional Medal of Honor of the United States of America. This award is given by direction of the Philippine President, in pursuance to paragraph 1-6a, Section II, Chapter 1, Armed Forces of the Philippines Regulations G131-053, General Headquarters, Armed forces of the Philippines, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, dated 1 July 1986.
Among the graduates of the Philippine Military Academy, nine are known to have received this prestigious award; three were graduates of the pre-war period (1914, 1915, and 1943) when it was then known as the Philippine Constabulary Academy, and 6 belonged to classes in the post-war period (1979, 1987, 1988, and 1998) with three recipients belonging to the Class of 1987. The following alumni were the recipients of the award:
Paulino T. Santos, Sr., PCA '14
Mariano N. Castaneda, Sr., PCA '15
Conrado D. Yap, PMA '43
Arturo B. Ortiz, PMA '79
Robert Edward Mina Lucero, PMA '87
Custodio J. Parcon, Jr., PMA '87
Cirilito E. Sobejana, PMA '87
Bartolome Vicente O. Bacarro, PMA '88
Herbert Diaz Dilag, PMA '98
The medal is the most prestigious award attainable by military personnel and is given to those who served their country with courage, daring initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger. It is also given in recognition of their gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their lives, above and beyond the call of duty which reflects the highest credit upon themselves and enhances the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
flipzi - May 26, 2009 10:44 PM (GMT)
Lt. Col. Ariel Querubin, Philippine Marine Corps
MUSINGS
By Ronald Roy; The Daily Tribune 02/16/2007
It was Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo herself who pinned the Medal For Valor, more popularly known as Medal of Valor (MoV), on Lt. Col. Ariel Querubin of the Philippine Marine Corps. She was so proud of him, always addressing him “my hero” and, with a ring of fondness, called him by his first name every time they met. In fact, she never failed to abide by the tradition of saluting first a soldier if he was an MoV awardee. For your information, a soldier always salutes the President first, per force of law. The only exception is if the soldier is an MoV recipient, in which case the Commander-in-Chief is the first to salute, per force of tradition.
In the entire history of Philippine soldiery, Ariel Querubin became one of only a handful of MoV awardees. He officially received this recognition for acts of conspicuous courage, gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty as Commanding Officer, Marine Battalion Landing Team-1, Philippine Marine Corps, Philippine Navy during a 24-hour firefight against an estimated 800 fully armed men belonging to the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front at Barangay Inudaran, Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte from March 18 to 19, 2000.
Tasked to capture the formidable MILF Camp John Mack (Abdullatef), Headquarters of the 303rd Brigade, 3rd Field Division of the MILF, commanded by the notorious Abdul Rahman Macapaar, alias Commander Bravo, Ariel Querubin spearheaded the 1st MBLT composed of 117 officers and men in this hazardous mission against the enemy, superior in numbers, with a familiarity with the terrain, and believed responsible for the spate of bombings in Central Mindanao and the siege of, and hostage-taking at, Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte. On or about 181815H March 2000, while en route to their objective, he and his men were subjected to heavy volume of fire by rebels from their well-entrenched dugouts, bunkers and trenches.
Unable to maneuver due to darkness and intense devastating fire from both heavy and light machine guns, B-40 rockets, mortar and snipers, he nevertheless ordered his men to hold the line and directed the Special Operations Squad to close in on the enemy camp and pinpoint its location to the Marines’ battalion artillery supporting flanks, and the V-300 and V-150 armored vehicles to dislodge the enemy from their heavily fortified bunkers.
Unmindful of his own safety, Ariel Querubin continuously moved from one forward position to another, thus drawing enemy fire to his own location, purposely to pinpoint enemy targets for their artillery support flanks. The battle, which had raged continuously until the following day, did not deter him from rallying his men in repulsing wave after wave of enemy reinforcements and unrelenting assaults in their attempt to encircle his unit.
Despite dwindling ammunition and increasing casualties on their side, Colonel Querubin never lost his aggressive spirit as he continued to move around while urging and inspiring his men, including the wounded, to continue holding their ground. Bunker to bunker, he personally led the assault until the enemy’s line of defense started to crumble. Under his inspiring leadership, his men fought ferociously, forcing the enemy’s last line of defense to collapse and sending them scampering in different directions, along with their dead and wounded, and leaving behind their vaunted rocket launchers and high-powered firearms, as well as documents of high intelligence value.
The capture of Camp John Mack resulted in the neutralization of the MILF’s most strategic staging area for operations and, more importantly, liberated the residents along the coastal municipalities of Lanao del Norte from the oppressive MILF revolutionary tax collection estimated at P38 million annually. By this gallant deed, Col. Ariel Querubin distinguished himself in combat in the finest tradition of Filipino soldiery.
The foregoing narration is based on the official files of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
http://magdaloparasapagbabago.blogspot.com...ine-marine.html
www.daylife.com/photo/09wTbeOeKFeSp
Col. Querubin with BGen. Danilo Lim, Head of the FSRR
http://www.ellentordesillas.com/?p=2494
MUSINGS
By Ronald Roy; The Daily Tribune 02/16/2007
It was Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo herself who pinned the Medal For Valor, more popularly known as Medal of Valor (MoV), on Lt. Col. Ariel Querubin of the Philippine Marine Corps. She was so proud of him, always addressing him “my hero” and, with a ring of fondness, called him by his first name every time they met. In fact, she never failed to abide by the tradition of saluting first a soldier if he was an MoV awardee. For your information, a soldier always salutes the President first, per force of law. The only exception is if the soldier is an MoV recipient, in which case the Commander-in-Chief is the first to salute, per force of tradition.
In the entire history of Philippine soldiery, Ariel Querubin became one of only a handful of MoV awardees. He officially received this recognition for acts of conspicuous courage, gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty as Commanding Officer, Marine Battalion Landing Team-1, Philippine Marine Corps, Philippine Navy during a 24-hour firefight against an estimated 800 fully armed men belonging to the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front at Barangay Inudaran, Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte from March 18 to 19, 2000.
Tasked to capture the formidable MILF Camp John Mack (Abdullatef), Headquarters of the 303rd Brigade, 3rd Field Division of the MILF, commanded by the notorious Abdul Rahman Macapaar, alias Commander Bravo, Ariel Querubin spearheaded the 1st MBLT composed of 117 officers and men in this hazardous mission against the enemy, superior in numbers, with a familiarity with the terrain, and believed responsible for the spate of bombings in Central Mindanao and the siege of, and hostage-taking at, Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte. On or about 181815H March 2000, while en route to their objective, he and his men were subjected to heavy volume of fire by rebels from their well-entrenched dugouts, bunkers and trenches.
Unable to maneuver due to darkness and intense devastating fire from both heavy and light machine guns, B-40 rockets, mortar and snipers, he nevertheless ordered his men to hold the line and directed the Special Operations Squad to close in on the enemy camp and pinpoint its location to the Marines’ battalion artillery supporting flanks, and the V-300 and V-150 armored vehicles to dislodge the enemy from their heavily fortified bunkers.
Unmindful of his own safety, Ariel Querubin continuously moved from one forward position to another, thus drawing enemy fire to his own location, purposely to pinpoint enemy targets for their artillery support flanks. The battle, which had raged continuously until the following day, did not deter him from rallying his men in repulsing wave after wave of enemy reinforcements and unrelenting assaults in their attempt to encircle his unit.
Despite dwindling ammunition and increasing casualties on their side, Colonel Querubin never lost his aggressive spirit as he continued to move around while urging and inspiring his men, including the wounded, to continue holding their ground. Bunker to bunker, he personally led the assault until the enemy’s line of defense started to crumble. Under his inspiring leadership, his men fought ferociously, forcing the enemy’s last line of defense to collapse and sending them scampering in different directions, along with their dead and wounded, and leaving behind their vaunted rocket launchers and high-powered firearms, as well as documents of high intelligence value.
The capture of Camp John Mack resulted in the neutralization of the MILF’s most strategic staging area for operations and, more importantly, liberated the residents along the coastal municipalities of Lanao del Norte from the oppressive MILF revolutionary tax collection estimated at P38 million annually. By this gallant deed, Col. Ariel Querubin distinguished himself in combat in the finest tradition of Filipino soldiery.
The foregoing narration is based on the official files of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
http://magdaloparasapagbabago.blogspot.com...ine-marine.html
www.daylife.com/photo/09wTbeOeKFeSp
Col. Querubin with BGen. Danilo Lim, Head of the FSRR
http://www.ellentordesillas.com/?p=2494
flipzi - May 26, 2009 10:45 PM (GMT)
TIME MAGAZINE
Heroes & Icons
http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages...1894281,00.html
Brady Gustafson
By Mark Thompson
Lance Corporal Brady (Goose) Gustafson and his 20 fellow Marines sensed trouble on July 21 as they crept into the Afghan village of Shewan and saw civilians drifting away. Moments later, a barrage of rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and machine-gun fire enveloped Gustafson's mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicle (MRAP) and its three trailing humvees. An RPG exploded inside his vehicle, the resulting blast searing his face as it rushed through the open turret where he was manning the machine gun.
He started shooting at gun flashes from an estimated 100 Taliban, some only 20 yards away. Gustafson, 21, stood up for a better firing position but was instantly racked with pain. "I looked down, and a lot of my right leg wasn't there," he says. "I could see muscle and bone, and I was bleeding pretty hard." The RPG had taken out six inches of leg bones and flesh. Gustafson's booted right foot dangled uselessly, attached only by his leg's calf muscles.
The MRAP stopped. The driver, hit in the head by shrapnel, appeared to be dead. Enemy machine-gun fire kept most of the other Marines inside their vehicles. Gustafson watched as his turret's bulletproof windows cracked under the onslaught. Somebody had to fire back. A Marine inside the MRAP yanked a tourniquet off his flak jacket and wound it tightly around Gustafson's shattered leg.
His wound stanched, Gustafson finished firing off the ammo belt's 200 rounds, pausing between each six-round burst to keep the barrel from melting. He pulled up and fired off another 17-lb. belt. After nearly 10 minutes, weak from blood loss, he swapped places; the other Marine kept firing as their driver came to and they escaped.
Gustafson now has a fake lower right leg and a real Navy Cross, the nation's second highest award, for valor. But the most important outcome, according to Gustafson: "We didn't lose a single Marine."
Fast Fact: To date, only 29 Navy Crosses have been awarded during the hostilities in Iraq and Afghanistan
Heroes & Icons
http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages...1894281,00.html
Brady Gustafson
By Mark Thompson
Lance Corporal Brady (Goose) Gustafson and his 20 fellow Marines sensed trouble on July 21 as they crept into the Afghan village of Shewan and saw civilians drifting away. Moments later, a barrage of rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and machine-gun fire enveloped Gustafson's mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicle (MRAP) and its three trailing humvees. An RPG exploded inside his vehicle, the resulting blast searing his face as it rushed through the open turret where he was manning the machine gun.
He started shooting at gun flashes from an estimated 100 Taliban, some only 20 yards away. Gustafson, 21, stood up for a better firing position but was instantly racked with pain. "I looked down, and a lot of my right leg wasn't there," he says. "I could see muscle and bone, and I was bleeding pretty hard." The RPG had taken out six inches of leg bones and flesh. Gustafson's booted right foot dangled uselessly, attached only by his leg's calf muscles.
The MRAP stopped. The driver, hit in the head by shrapnel, appeared to be dead. Enemy machine-gun fire kept most of the other Marines inside their vehicles. Gustafson watched as his turret's bulletproof windows cracked under the onslaught. Somebody had to fire back. A Marine inside the MRAP yanked a tourniquet off his flak jacket and wound it tightly around Gustafson's shattered leg.
His wound stanched, Gustafson finished firing off the ammo belt's 200 rounds, pausing between each six-round burst to keep the barrel from melting. He pulled up and fired off another 17-lb. belt. After nearly 10 minutes, weak from blood loss, he swapped places; the other Marine kept firing as their driver came to and they escaped.
Gustafson now has a fake lower right leg and a real Navy Cross, the nation's second highest award, for valor. But the most important outcome, according to Gustafson: "We didn't lose a single Marine."
Fast Fact: To date, only 29 Navy Crosses have been awarded during the hostilities in Iraq and Afghanistan