Defence Ministry Awards 'Military Act of the Year 2024' in Four Categories

Bratislava, April 23 (TASR) - The Defence Ministry awarded the Military Act of the Year 2024 in four categories, with three soldiers and several teams being among the laureates, TASR has learnt from the ministry's press department head Michal Bachraty. "The winners were selected by a commission composed of representatives from the Ministry of Defense, led by the Commander-in-Chief of the Slovak Armed Forces, Slovak President Peter Pellegrini,” explained the head of the press department. In the Life-Saving category, the award went to Jozef Bodnar and Lukas Ivanecky from the 20th Logistics Battalion in Presov, part of the Slovak Ground Forces. While off duty, both men saved a total of five lives in two separate incidents on a beach in Latvia near the Adazi military base. They rescued three children and, later, a man and his daughter from rough seas. “Thanks to their presence of mind, bravery, and willingness to help even while off duty, a tragedy was averted. Their actions are a clear testament to the military spirit of responsibility, courage, and selflessness,” said Bachraty. In the Public Assistance category, the award was given to Jozef Blaho from the 901st Engineer Battalion, 91st Engineer Regiment in Sered. According to Bachraty, Blaho is the driving force behind numerous charitable initiatives. He organizes fundraisers for families of deceased colleagues, children of soldiers, social institutions, and communities in deployment areas. He also contributes to benefit events and the creation of symbolic memorial sites. In the Friend of the Army category, the award went to the President and members of the Czech and Slovak Artillery Association. They were recognized for promoting artillery and military traditions. “They knight cadets into the artillery order and collaborate with various armed forces and institutions. Their work significantly contributes to building trust in the Slovak Armed Forces, spreading pride in the military profession, and preserving historical memory for future generations,” Bachraty explained. He added that they also organize commemorative events and lectures. Finally, in the Service to the Homeland category, multiple military units were honored for their successful humanitarian and evacuation operation during the extremely challenging and dangerous situation amid the escalation of conflict in Beirut in October 2024. “Thanks to their commitment, 94 people were evacuated from an area under immediate threat of airstrikes. Their performance is a testament to the readiness of the Slovak Armed Forces to protect lives during crises, both at home and abroad,” the press department head emphasized. mf