One-hundred and ten members of the 3rd Egyptian Combat Convoy Company received the United Nations medal on 20 December 2022, as a tangible recognition of the peacekeepers’ efforts and achievements.
The Egyptian group, based in Mopti, Mali, has participated in many missions since its deployment to the Center region in 2018; successfully completing 43 logistic convoys that have delivered medical aid and rations to blue helmets throughout the country, according to a statement recently issued by UN.
"The 110 Egyptian forces, who are in the service of the United Nations, have been honored for their bravery and dedication to peace," said the statement.
In his address at the ceremony, Egypt's Colonel Selim Sherif, Commander of the group, shed light on dangerous nature of their work and the complex situation in Mali, saying "the company has tragically experienced 5 casualties because of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) throughout 2022."
“As a Combat Convoy Company you were faced with a very difficult task, but also an important one. You facilitate the movement of convoys, and thus the logistics towards our colleagues in more remote camps. You ensure their materials, their fuel, their food, their livelihoods. And that makes you indispensable,” said General MATTHIJSSEN.
“You faced this challenging task in Mali, losing five of your colleagues in the course of your tour,” he added.
Their lost brothers-in-arms were also solemnly remembered during the ceremony, and the company’s valour was recognized by MINUSMA Force Commander Lieutenant-General Cornelis MATTHIJSSEN, who acknowledged 2022 had been a challenging year in a high IED-threat environment for all units deployed within MINUSMA.
It's worth mentioning that the United Nations Medal is an prestigious international decoration awarded by the United Nations (UN) to the various world countries members for participation in joint international military and police operations such as peacekeeping, humanitarian efforts, and disaster relief.
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