FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija – Together with the General Staff of the command, Major General Andrew D Costelo, Commander of the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division serves as the guest speaker of the 81st Infantry (SPARTAN) Battalion on their 13th Founding Anniversary on August 24, 2022 held at Headquarters 81IB, Barangay Fausto Simeon, Ragay, Camarines Sur.
A thanksgiving mass was conducted by the Parish Priest of Ragay as an opening activity. Later on, activities such as Half-Court 4X4 Basketball, Palosebo, Patintero, Cup Relay, Tug of War, and Pinoy Henyo were conducted to showcase camaraderie and sportsmanship among the unit.
In his statement, Lieutenant Colonel Racii Alejandro G Sotto, Commanding Officer of 81IB extends his utmost appreciation to the efforts and sacrifices of all Spartan troopers in attaining peace in their area of operation.
Also, one of the highlights of the celebration is the commemoration and giving of awards to the outstanding enlisted personnel of the 81IB and the giving of a Certificate of Appreciation to the stakeholders as key partners of the command in the campaign against insurgency.
“The 81IB will continue to serve our nation to attain unity, peace, and prosperity, “Once a Spartan, always a Spartan!” Lt Col Sotto added.
Meanwhile, MGen Costelo encourages and inspires the Spartan troops to aim for excellence and create a difference in the field. “Hindi matutumbasan ng kahit na anong parangal at bagay ang inyong ginagawang sakripisyo, ang 7ID lalo’t higit ang inyong lingkod ay handang tugunan ang lahat ng inyong pangangailangan upang mas magampanan ninyo ang inyong sinumpaang tungkulin.” MGen Costelo added.
