Families of UAE fallen soldiers welcome medals

This content was originally posted in 7DAYS UAE website at: Families of UAE fallen soldiers welcome medals The families of soldiers killed fighting in Yemen have spoken of their honour at plans to award them a special heroes’ medal. Members of the Federal National Council (FNC) on Tuesday agreed to amend the law to introduce the Martyr’s Medal. It follows a decision by President HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan to mark the sacrifice soldiers have made. Omar Mubarak Salem Al Jaberi, father of  Abdullah Omar Mubarak Salem Al Jaberi (pictured right), said: “Although it’s terrible losing a son, it feels good that the loss was shared by the whole nation. “And honouring my son and other fallen soldiers with medals for their sacrifice… makes me happy.” RELATED: UAE soldiers coverage The 31-year-old was among more than 50 servicemen who lost their lives in a rocket attack on Marib on September 3, the deadliest day for Arab Coalition forces in Yemen. Abdullah’s 16-year-old brother, Sultan Omar Mubarak Al Jaberi, also said: “I applaud everything done in honour of all the fallen soldiers including the initiation of Martyrs’ Day and now the medals.” The fallen soldier left four girls, the eldest aged 11. Mohammed Saeed Al Habsi, the brother of First Corporal Fahim Saeed Al Habsi who died alongside two others when their vehicle hit a landmine in August, said:  “Receiving the medal on his behalf would bring joy to the family and give comfort to his wife and children.” He added: “The Martyrs’ Medal will inspire young men and women to serve and defend their nation with passion.” More than 70 UAE service personnel have died in Operation Restoring Hope, which aims to push back Houthi rebels and restore the deposed Sana’a government. ismail@7days.ae Read the original story at: Families of UAE fallen soldiers welcome medals