site.btaPresident Rumen Radev Honours Bulgarian Generals and Admirals with Top State Awards for Outstanding Service

President Rumen Radev presented top state awards to military generals and admirals at a ceremony in the Coat of Arms Hall of the presidential institution.

"It is an honour for me to bestow high State distinctions upon distinguished Bulgarian generals and admirals for their commendable service and significant contribution to the development of the armed forces," Radev said during the official ceremony.

For his contributions to the development of military medicine and healthcare, Major General Prof. Dr. Ventsislav Mutafchiyski was awarded the Military Merit Order, First Class.

"Your expertise and leadership have solidified the Military Medical Academy's position as a modern and leading healthcare institution in Bulgaria and the entire Southeast European region, enhancing the country's reputation in military medical science," Radev said. "During a challenging time for the world, you stepped up to take on significant responsibility, gaining public recognition and transforming military medicine from just a profession into a true calling to which you are fully committed."

Radev also awarded the Military Merit Order, First Class, to Lieutenant General Lyubcho Todorov for his contributions to the development and strengthening of the Bulgarian Army, his long and impeccable service, and his contributions to national security and public order in the Republic of Bulgaria.

"In every leadership role you've held, you've consistently shown professionalism and leadership," Radev said. "Your foresight played a key role in maintaining the combat readiness of the Bulgarian army. During the toughest times in your career, you stood firm. Despite the sacrifices you made, you gained the respect of your colleagues and subordinates. You stayed true to your oath."

Flotilla Admiral Prof. Boyan Mednikarov was awarded the Order of Saints Cyril and Methodius, Necklace, for his important contributions to the development of naval and maritime education.

"Your academic and military achievements are numerous, as are the trained personnel for the naval forces," Radev said. " Your commitment to science and professional growth is strengthening the foundation of the navy. The way you incorporate new high-tech simulators and interactive training systems is remarkable."

Speaking after being awarded the order, Mutafcihyski said: "We have never walked the path of life alone; we cannot achieve anything unless we inspire others to believe in our cause and ideas".

"We are confident that we have left behind people who will carry on our ideas and actions. For me, this chapter is not yet closed," he continued. This journey was undertaken together with our families – nothing was spared in our service, and our family was always by our side; they are the true heroes in our story."

Vice President Iliana Iotova, along with Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov, Healthcare Minister Galya Kondeva, and Education and Science Minister Galin Tsokov, also attended the ceremony, joined by generals, officers, and other officials.