UAE legislators approve new medal for fallen service personnel

This content was originally posted in 7DAYS UAE website at: UAE legislators approve new medal for fallen service personnel Families of martyred soldiers will be awarded medals to honour the sacrifice they have given for their country, Federal National Council (FNC) members have said. Legislators yesterday agreed to amend the 1987 Civil Decorations Law to include the Martyr’s Medal, following a decision by UAE President HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed to commemorate their sacrifice. Salem Ahmed Ali Al Shehhi, an FNC member for Ras Al Khaimah, said: “This is important. Honouring the martyrs with medals will strengthen their families.” And Naema Abdullah Al Sharhan, who also represents RAK, added: “These medals are meant to… acknowledge them as role models who sacrificed themselves for the nation.” She said such recognition would “inspire” young people to defend the country’s sovereignty and homeland. Sheikh Khalifa in August announced that November 30 would be a holiday to commemorate fallen soldiers. It followed the death of three UAE soldiers who were killed when the armoured vehicle they were travelling in exploded when it hit a landmine in Yemen. Altogether more than 70 have died in Operation Restoring Hope, which aims to push back Houthi rebels and restore the deposed Sanaa government. UAE forces are currently serving in Yemen. FNC members also discussed a draft law regarding medals and decorations for diplomats and “others who offered high services to the state”. “The law seeks to acknowledge the efforts of those who have contributed to developing the UAE’s foreign relations,” said Al Shehhi. The council also discussed amendments to a 2009 law that established a military medals law. Members suggested that serving soldiers who have excelled themselves be awarded with gold, silver or bronze medals. ismail@7days.ae Read the original story at: UAE legislators approve new medal for fallen service personnel