Chapter 357 Recipients of Medals Part II
Following the distribution of the Iron Valor Medals, the ceremony proceeded with the presentation of the Steel Service Medal.
This honour was reserved for soldiers who had provided consistent and dedicated service during the war effort.
While the number of recipients was fewer than that of the Iron Valor Medal, their contributions were no less significant.
Among the awardees, one could find leaders from various units, spanning logistics, intelligence, medics, engineering, and more.
These individuals had displayed exceptional teamwork and had made substantial contributions to the overall success of the missions.
Their tireless efforts behind the scenes had been instrumental in the kingdom's victories on the battlefield.
Without these people working behind the scenes, it would be impossible for an army to function seamlessly like a well-oiled machine.
Then, came the moment of the Bronze Commendation Medal.
This prestigious award was reserved for soldiers who not only demonstrated exceptional leadership skills but also significantly impacted the battlefield.
The recipients of this esteemed honour were less than ten people, a reflection of the rarity of their extraordinary accomplishments.
The first name was called, a name that resonated throughout the plaza. "Kellan Stormrider, First Fleet's Admiral."
As Admiral Stormrider made his way to the stage, the announcer began to give a brief explanation of his achievement. "He has defeated the Blande's navy in the gulf, preventing the enemy forces from launching simultaneous attacks on Napuna. This victory had tilted the tide of the war to our side and had safeguarded the kingdom's shores from invasion."
The crowd erupted into applause as they comprehended the scale of Admiral Stormrider's achievement.
A circular bronze emblem featuring a raised sword held by a pair of strong, protective hands, surrounded by a laurel wreath was attached to his chest.
"Congratulations, Kellan," Riz offered with genuine warmth in his voice.
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Admiral Stormrider replied, his eyes reflecting the sense of pride.
The ceremony continued with a succession of distinguished individuals, each of them stepping onto the stage to receive the Bronze Commendation Medal.
Second Fleet Admiral Jareth Winters in his crisp uniform, was recognized for his conquest of Erle Island.
His accomplishment had granted the kingdom a crucial foothold in the heart of a vital trade route, securing a significant advantage.
Wilmot Aymer, the former head knight of Count Caushilbo who had risen to lead a rebellion, took his place on the stage.
He had played a pivotal role in safeguarding Tetherswest from falling into the clutches of Blande's advancing armies, led by Kurt Ernest.
Next was Basil Belvadair, formerly a humble butler in the Caushilbo household.
Alongside Wilmot Aymer, he had made significant contributions in stabilizing the newly acquired northern territories of the kingdom through administrative tasks.
Finally, the spotlight fell on Alaric Swiftarrow, the unerring leader of the First Fleet's sharpshooters' team.
His remarkable marksmanship resulted in the assassination of General Braun of Blande which ultimately led to the end of Blande's invasion.
Alaric, a member of the secluded Rogvor race, stood tall and proud as he stepped onto the stage.
His distinctive pointed ears, characteristic of his people, drew even more attention from the already captivated audience.
Murmurs of fascination and respect rippled through the crowd as they admired not only his exceptional skills but also his unique features.
Riz approached him with the Bronze Commendation Medal, he extended his hand in recognition of Alaric's extraordinary service.
The king's words were filled with admiration. "Your precision lived up to the reputation of the Rogvor people. You have our deepest gratitude, Alaric."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Alaric replied with a humble nod, his sharp eyes scanning the sea of faces before him.
The audience continued to applaud, showing their deep appreciation for his pivotal role in the war.
The announcer's voice filled the plaza once more, breaking the momentary silence. "Alright, everyone, we have finished with the Bronze Commendation Medal. It's now time to proceed with the next award. The next award is known as the Silver Guardian Medal. It is presented to soldiers who have displayed unparalleled defensive skills, protecting their comrades or territory effectively."
A sense of curiosity rippled through the audience as they eagerly waited to learn who had earned this prestigious accolade.
The military had painstakingly reviewed all the battles that unfolded during the war, and after careful consideration, they determined that one individual deserved this honour.
As the name "Levi Owen" rang out across the plaza, the audience's eyes turned toward the stage.
Levi Owen stepped forward with happiness and pride plastered on his face.
"Ladies and gentlemen, Levi Owen has saved this kingdom from the grave danger. He blocked the advancement of the Inverloch army, led by Hector Hajdu, preventing them from encroaching into Ryntum territory. Had he failed, it would have opened a clear path for Inverloch forces to Manfura, and from there to Bideford, our capital." said the announcer, recounting Levi's deeds.
Riz nodded as he listened to the announcer's words.
His hand, meanwhile, reached for the shield-shaped silver medal adorned with a finely detailed engraving of a soldier holding a shield.
"Levi," Riz said as he stepped forward to present the medal, "you truly saved us back then."
Levi, with a humble smile, replied, "It was just a fortunate coincidence, Your Majesty."
With Levi being the only recipient of the Silver Guardian Medal, the ceremony was quick to move on to the most prestigious award of the day—the Gold Sovereign Medal.
The military was reluctant on whether this award should be given or not. It was, after all, reserved for individuals who had exhibited extraordinary contributions, leadership, and unwavering commitment, leaving an indelible mark on the war.
In the end, they decided to give it to the man who ran havoc in the south of the kingdom.
The name of Samuel Lazo was called out.
His name is well-known among the higher-ups in the kingdom. Once the mayor of Baroks, he held the esteemed position of governor over the Baroks-Nyirdi province.
His contributions during the war were nothing short of extraordinary.
Samuel played a pivotal role in the capture of several critical cities, including Nyirdi, Hajdu, and Lonsbak.
Immediately after these conquests, he went on to sown chaos within the enemy's encampment, indirectly weakening their combined forces in Mezorin.
He then lays a trap and defeats the central figure in Inverloch's invasion, Hector Hadju.
Later on, he negotiated with Inver and obtained Pheonovia province for the kingdom.
Riz attached the medal, a star-shaped medal with a prominent gold centrepiece, surrounded by intricate engravings of swords, shields, and banners onto Samuel's chest.
As Samuel received the medal from the king, the audience erupted in cheers and applause.
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