TACLOBAN CITY – A soldier has been awarded a bronze cross medal for sacrificing his life to save two children from drowning in Barangay Locsoon, Borongan City, Eastern Samar.
TECHNICAL Sgt. Samuel Garbo is laid to rest in Giporlos, Eastern Samar on Friday, April 19. (Photo via Marie Marticio)
Technical Sgt. Samuel Garbo was spending time with his friends in a beach resort on April 8 when he heard the call for help of drowning children.
He pushed the children aged nine and 13 toward the shore and reportedly was exhausted due to the strong waves.
His body was recovered by the rescue team and was declared dead in a hospital.
"He will be remembered as a hero forever and as a proud member of the Philippine Army," one of the children said.
His family received P413,000 assistance through the Special Financial Assistance (SFA) extended by Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, commanding general of the Philippine Army.
Garbo’s family also received other assistance from other financial institutions of the Army.
“There’s no perfect human being, my father is not perfect but he is a perfect father for us,” Mariel, his daughter, said.
Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, commander of the 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade, said Garbo was honored with a 21-gun salute in recognition of his heroism during his interment in Giporolos, Eastern Samar on Friday, April 19.
Lt. Col. Joseph Bugaoan, acting commanding officer of the 78th IB, assured the bereaved family that they will do their part to help them claim all the necessary benefits.
“The sacrifices and heroism of Garbo will always be remembered. Let his bravery in saving lives and risking his own life be an inspiring act to our soldiers who will live on to continue the legacy of being a one and true Warrior," Bugaoan said.