EUFOR Holds International Medal Parade for Operation Althea at Camp Butmir

On May 13, the European Union Force (EUFOR) conducted an international medal parade at Camp Butmir to honor personnel serving in Operation Althea. During the ceremony, over 400 soldiers from ten different nations were awarded the Common Security and Defence Policy Medal. This decoration recognizes individual contributions to the mission's success and is inscribed with the Latin phrase Pro Pace Unum, meaning United for Peace. The event was attended by senior military and diplomatic representatives, including EUFOR Commander Major General Maurizio Fronda. In his address, Major General Fronda thanked the recipients, emphasizing their vital role in strengthening stability and reinforcing confidence in EUFOR’s ability to maintain a secure environment in Bosnia and Herzegovina. He highlighted that the soldiers embody the values guiding the mission and reflect the international community's dedication to the country's future. Operation Althea, launched in 2004, remains the European Union's first and largest military mission under the Common Security and Defence Policy framework. The medals are awarded by the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, acknowledging both military and civilian service within CSDP missions.