The Ghanaian Battalion currently serving with the United Nations Interim Force in the Lebanon, UNIFIL Ghanbatt 55, have been presented with UN Peace Medals at a colourful Medal Presentation Ceremony at Ghanbatt HQ at Tibnine, South Lebanon. The presentation of the medals was preceded by a colourful military parade.

A high-powered military delegation led by the Army Commander, Major General CB Yaache, witnessed the ceremony.

In an address read on behalf of the UN Secretary General by the UNIFIL Force Commander Maj Gen Latit Tewari, HE Kofi Annan commended the officers and Men of Ghanbatt 55 for the high level of cooperation, dedication and loyalty exhibited in the UNIFIL area of operation.

Maj Gen Tewari recalled with gratitude Ghana's participation in numerous peacekeeping operations worldwide over the years. The Force Commander observed that though Ghanbatt had been subjected to a number of difficult and dangerous situations during their tour of duty, with discipline and dynamic leadership coupled with pragmatic operational procedures, Ghanbatt has managed to maintain a peaceful atmosphere in their area of responsibility.

He reassured that the international community was doing its best to bring lasting peace to the Middle East and it was heartwarming to see that efforts by UN peacekeepers was yielding positive results.

The Army Commander, Maj Gen CB Yaache had earlier paid a courtesy call on the Force Commander during which they held discussions behind closed doors.

Other members of the Ghanaian delegation ere Capt (GN) Edward Mintah Oppong, Col Timothy Mbroh Barnes, Col John Anane Brobbey and Lt Col Isaac Tetteh Mensah all of the Ghana Armed Forces.