Tamale, April 9, GNA - Lt. Col Hope Agbenazah, Commanding Officer of Tamale Sixth Battalion of Infantry (6BN), on Sunday commended officers and men of the Battalion for their commitment to duty, which facilitated their six-month peacekeeping operations in Lebanon.

Col. Agbenazah, who commanded the United Nations' Peace Operations code named 'Ghanbatt 51' said despite the dangers the soldiers were exposed to they were the best among their contemporaries from other countries "and the indicators were there for all to see".

He was addressing a non-denominational religious service at Kamina Barracks in Tamale to welcome the peacekeepers back home. Members of the unit took immense risks shuttling between the Israeli Army and Militia groups in Lebanon to broker peace.

"It wasn't rosy and we must thank God we have all returned safely with some material rewards to improve on our lot". He warned the soldiers not to indulge in extravagant life styles and other anti-social activities that could endanger their lives and that of their immediate families.

The Rev. Lt. Bliss Divine Kofi Agbeko, who preached the sermon, asked the soldiers to remain disciplined, honest and selfless to duty in order to attract God's blessings for self-advancement.

He said the fear and apprehension that characterised previous peace operations were over. As soldiers they must be thankful to God for giving them the opportunity to embark on the just ended peace mission and returning home with money to cater for their needs.

WO One Ahmed Hassan Iddris, Imam for the unit, offered intercessory prayers for the President, members of government and for peace, stability and prosperity of the country.