Mogadishu – A group of 31 British soldiers who are concluding their tour of duty with the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) were today awarded medals for their distinguished service in Mogadishu.

The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG), Michael Keating, together with the head of UNSOS Hubert Price awarded the soldiers with United Nations Special Service Medals.

Mr. Keating hailed the British soldiers for their hard work and indispensable contribution to the ongoing peace efforts in Somalia.

His sentiments were echoed by Mr. Price, who praised the officers for their selfless spirit and immense contribution to stabilization efforts in Somalia, through the provision of critical medical, logistical and engineering support.

“May I take this opportunity, on behalf of UNSOS, to thank you for the immense contribution you have made to the Somali people, AMISOM (African Union Mission in Somalia) and the UN family. I commend the spirit and dedication you have shown in your duties despite the challenges encountered. The enthusiasm and overall team spirit you have exhibited was outstanding,” Mr. Price observed.

The soldiers receiving the awards are part of a larger group known as the UK 70. Britain’s Ambassador to Somalia, David Concar, congratulated the UK 70 team for its contribution to peace in Somalia, and noted that Britain remains committed to helping Somalia stabilize.

The United Nations Special Services Medal was established in 1995 to recognize uniformed personnel serving the United Nations in capacities other than established peacekeeping missions and UN Headquarters.