Manama, Dec. 17 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has been thanked by a number of political societies’ heads for declaring December 17 as an annual Commemoration Day.

They stressed that throughout history, Bahrainis have sacrificed their lives while defending peoples’ countries, freedom and security.

They affirmed that the Commemoration Day is an opportunity to pay homage to those who made sacrifices for the sake of the homeland and record their patriotism and courage in order to be a source of inspiration for the coming generations.

Shaikh Dr. Abdullatif Al-Mahmoud, Chairman of the National Unity Assembly, said that the Commemoration Day is a good opportunity to remember the sacrifices made by Bahrainis while defending the nation, affirming that Bahraini soldiers have never hesitated in supporting brotherly Arab countries.

He explained that the brave Bahraini servicemen lost their life while defending not only Yemen, but also the Arab and Islamic nations against those plotting against them.

The Commemoration Day is a reminder for all that those who fail to defend the nation lose their countries and themselves, he said.

Secretary-General of Al Minbar National Islamic Society Dr. Ali Ahmed Abdullah Al Amin said the national event aims to commemorate those who served the nation in Yemen or elsewhere, noting that Bahrain has a long history in championing just Arab and Islamic causes.

He affirmed that HM King Hamad has always been keen on honouring whoever serves the nation, expressing pride in the sacrifices of Bahraini servicemen.

Head of National Action Charter Society’s Political Bureau Ahmed Juma said that HM the King had translated the popular will into the ground when he announced the December 17 as an annual occasion to pay tribute to those who made sacrifices for the sake of the Kingdom.

The Bahraini people owes a lot to the duty personnel thanks to whose sacrifices, he said, the kingdom is living in security and stability.

W H Q

BNA 1250 GMT 2015/12/17