Three Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) soldiers have been awarded unique medals by the United States for their outstanding services.
The three were presented with medals only given by the United States Armed Forces to individuals who perform exceedingly heroic acts or commendable service that has not been recognised by any other higher award.
Col Daniel Rotich, Major Martin Muthaura, and Corporal Peter Shikuri received Joint Service Commendation medals for their swift response in foiling a terror attack at a US military base in Kenya.
The meritorious medals were decorated to the three by the United States Africa Command (US AFRICOM) for their heroic action during January 5, 2020, Al-Shabaab attack at Manda Base, in Lamu County.
Roles Played by Each in Foiling the Attack
Rotich received the prestigious medal for his technical acumen of coordinating air to ground support during the KDF engagement with the militia. He was tasked with handling a helicopter, a McDonnel Douglas 500 Defender, which helped the soldiers on the ground design and devise the momentum of the firefight with the enemy.
"Col Rotich’s superior leadership, technical and tactical abilities, coupled with his dedication to duty and selfless service were critical in the defeat of a platoon size element of the terrorists," his citation read.
Major Muthaura was decorated with the unique medal for his ability to assemble a platoon size element of his troops and supporting the US soldiers who were under attack.
Muthaura also deployed another squad to the jungle surrounding the airbase.
"Major Muthaura’s superior leadership, courage under fire and dedication to duty were critical in the defeat of the terrorists who attacked the airfield at Manda. His leadership during the engagement changed the momentum of the firefight between the US and KDF against the terrorists," his citation read.
On the other hand, Corporal Sikuri was feted for his bravery. He was among the KDF soldiers who were wounded but kept engaging the enemy till the last bullet.
The US AFRICOM Director of Operations, Maj Gen Gregory Anderson, applauded the three for their determination and bravery in the battlefield.
"You kept yourself on the frontline to protect others and save your nation. This is indeed commendable and we thank you for your courage and bravery," stated Maj Gen Anderson.
"The distinctive accomplishments of the three Service Personnel reflect credit upon themselves and KDF by the meritorious achievement in different capacities on the critical roles they played to ensure the militia were neutralized."
The three gallant soldiers were also hailed by Vice Chief of the Defence Forces (VCDF), Lt Gen Francis Ogolla, who noted that their recognition reflects the positive work output from the disciplined forces.
"You, receiving these medals, are representatives of KDF officers and service members. Everyone who took part in the operation is recognised," the VCDF remarked.
The awards come even as the country continues to rethink its position in having KDF in Somalia under the AMISON mission. The soldiers were deployed to the Southern part of Somalia on October 16, 2011, to pursue insurgents group Al Shabaab. Despite controversies and attacks, Kenya has not withdrawn the soldiers from the region.
