Luanda: Francisco Pereira Furtado, Minister of State and Head of the Military House of the President of the Republic, decorated 270 members of the Angolan Armed Forces (FAA) on Tuesday. The event took place in Luanda as part of the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of National Independence in November and the commemoration of the Angolan Armed Forces, aiming to honor the contributions of those who have served the nation.

According to Angola Press News Agency, the decorated individuals included lieutenant generals, vice admirals, rear admirals, brigadiers, and colonels, who were awarded the FAA Commemorative Medal. Vice Admiral Francisco Pedro of the Angolan Navy expressed that the decoration holds significant meaning for him, acknowledging his contributions to the nation. He emphasized the importance of setting an example for both retired and active officers and encouraged the youth to uphold the legacy of their predecessors in defending Angola.

Brigadier General Louren§o Bundi, who has served for 42 years, shared that the recognition was a welcome acknowledgment of his longstanding service. Joining the FAA at 18, he now feels that his efforts have been validated. He urged active-duty members to focus on the technical and military modernization of the FAA to enhance its strength. The Angolan Armed Forces were established on October 9, 1991, following the Bicesse Accords, which merged the former FAPLA and FALA to create a unified, non-partisan national army, symbolizing national unity after years of civil conflict.