According to a statement from the Presidency of the Republic, which VerAngola had access to, the military decorations ceremony took place this Thursday morning.
Chaired by the President of the Republic, 163 FAA officers were decorated at the ceremony to commemorate the 50th anniversary of national independence.
On the occasion, 75 general officers received the Military Palm Medal, single class, while the remaining 88 were awarded the FAA Medal of Valor, 1st class.
"The President of the Republic awarded the Military Palm Medal, single class, to 75 general officers, and the Angolan Armed Forces Medal of Valor, 1st class, to another 88 members of the Armed Forces," the statement reads.
Among those honored were former presidents Antonio Agostinho Neto and José Eduardo dos Santos.
"It is worth highlighting the fact that the first two presidents of the Republic, Antonio Agostinho Neto and José Eduardo dos Santos, both army generals, were awarded the Military Palm Medal," the Presidency said.
The medals were received by Maria Eugénia Neto and Ana Paula dos Santos, widows of the former presidents.
"Their respective widows, Maria Eugénia Neto and Ana Paula dos Santos, received the medals and diplomas corresponding to the distinction from the Head of State," the statement said.
In addition to José Eduardo dos Santos and Agostinho Neto, the honorees also include army generals João Luís Neto 'Xietu', António dos Santos França 'Ndalu', Francisco Pereira Furtado, and others.
Generals Fernando Garcia Miala, Hélder Fernando Pitta Groz, and Francisco Higino Lopes Carneiro, among others, are also on the list of honorees.
According to the statement, "the solemn act, held in the same space where ceremonies have been held to recognize citizens with relevant achievements in the process of decolonization, conquest and consolidation of peace and development of Angola, distinguished military personalities with outstanding achievements and merits in the defense of the homeland, the constitutional order and national unity."
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