First mission medals in Operation Sophia

Op Sophia military personnel who recently left the EUNAVFOR operation in the Mediterranean have been awarded mission medals.

The operation commander Rear Admiral (UH) Enrico Credendino awarded the medal February 2, after little more than 6 months since the operation was launched.

45 officers, petty officers and enlisted, coming from 11 different European Union Member States, have received the medal as recognition of their committed and professional contribution guaranteed during their assignment to EUNAVFOR MED Operation Headquarters’ Staff.

EUNAVFOR Med operation SOPHIA, launched on June 22, 2015, entered its second phase October 7, 2015. Till now, Op Sophia vessels contributed to the rescuing of more than 9000 lives while 46 people have been arrested as possible smugglers and/or traffickers by competent Italian Judicial Authorities following EUNAVFOR MED activities. Additionally, 76 boats have been seized from illegal organizations.