President Rumen Radev awarded Major General Ivan Parapunov (Ret.), Lieutenant Colonel Stefan Stefanov, and Major Dimitar Grigorov with the President's Honorary Badge for their contribution to national security. The award ceremony took place in the Coat of Arms Hall of the Presidency, in a solemn atmosphere on the occasion of October 16 - the Air Force Day.
The atmosphere in the hall was filled with pride and patriotism. High-ranking guests, including representatives of the armed forces, attended the ceremony to show their respect for the honorees.
In his speech, President Radev emphasized that the three honorees are the embodiment of professionalism, duty, and unconditional dedication to the aviation cause. He noted that their work has affirmed the authority of the Air Force and has inspired future generations of pilots and aviation specialists.
The President especially highlighted the contribution of Major General Ivan Parapunov (Ret.) to the construction and strengthening of the Air Force. Attention was also paid to the creation of the "Bulgarian Air Force" foundation, whose main goal is to support continuity and promote the aviation idea in the country.
The head of state also emphasized the merits of Lieutenant Colonel Stefan Stefanov, who showed high professionalism and personal courage in extinguishing forest fires. The achievements of Major Dimitar Grigorov, distinguished by excellent flight training and devoted service in protecting Bulgarian airspace within the framework of the joint air defense system of NATO, were not forgotten either.
In his speech, President Radev expressed gratitude to the families of the awardees, emphasizing their support and dedication. He added that aviation is not only combat capability, but also the embodiment of spirit, patriotism, and continuity between generations.
On behalf of the awardees, gratitude was expressed by Major General Ivan Parapunov (Ret.). He defined the award as a "symbol of trust and recognition", which evokes a feeling of pride and belonging to the Air Force and the Bulgarian Army. "Let our service be an example of honor, loyalty, and love for the Fatherland. Bulgarian aviation will exist, because it is a cause, a spirit, and continuity", General Parapunov stated.
At the end of his speech, General Parapunov sent a special greeting to President Rumen Radev, emphasizing his contribution to the development of military aviation and to the affirmation of the professionalism of Bulgarian pilots. "It is special when the student rewards his teacher. Thank you for the honor and attention. Long live Bulgaria, long live the Air Force!", he concluded.
The ceremony ended to the sounds of a military orchestra, and those present paid tribute to the honored heroes.