Africa-Press – Angola. The ceremony to award medals to over a thousand members of the National Police (PN) began this Wednesday in the Protocol Hall of the Presidency of the Republic, under the guidance of the Head of State, João Lourenço.
The event, which takes place within the framework of the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the National Police, to be commemorated on the 28th of this month, began with the singing of the National Anthem and the presentation of the National Police standard. This was followed by a cultural moment enlivened by members of the corporation.
Today, the ceremony for the awarding of the Police Service Valor Medal, Single Class, is scheduled, which will include 200 honorees.
This measure aims to recognize the achievements and merits of members of the National Police who, over the years, have distinguished themselves in guaranteeing constitutional order, maintaining public security and tranquility, as well as in the prevention and combating of crime, contributing decisively to social peace in the country.The distinctions are part of the Angolan National Police’s system of awards and distinctions and cover active duty personnel, reservists, and posthumously, including commissioned officers, senior officers, junior officers, sub-chiefs, as well as canines serving in the force.
Among the decorations awarded are the Police Service Valor Medal, Single Class, the Public Order Medal (1st, 2nd and 3rd Classes), the Distinguished Service Medal (1st, 2nd and 3rd Classes), and the Canine Bravery Medal, the latter in recognition of the contribution of police dogs in relevant operational missions.
The decree also establishes that the medals will be presented by the President of the Republic, the Minister of State and Head of the Military House of the President of the Republic, the Minister of the Interior, and the Commander-General of the Angolan National Police, according to the class of each decoration.
Among those posthumously awarded the Police Service Valor Medal, Single Class, special mention goes to Commissioner-General Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos, a prominent figure in Angolan political life, having held high state positions throughout his career and leaving a significant legacy in the country’s political and institutional history.Among other roles, Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos “Nandó” was Commander-General of the National Police, Vice-President of the Republic, and President of the National Assembly (Parliament).
Also on the list are, among others, General Santana André Pitra “Petroff”, Commissioner-General Armindo do Espírito Santo Vieira, General João Arnaldo Saraiva de Carvalho “Tetembwa”, and General Fernando Torres Vaz da Conceição “Mussolo”.
