(Photo courtesy: Office of the Army Chief Public Affairs)
MANILA -- Screen actor and Philippine Army (PA) reservist probationary 2nd Lt. Matteo Guidicelli graduated from the Scout Ranger Orientation Course at the Scout Ranger School, First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSSR) at Camp Tecson, Bulacan Thursday.
Along with the 97 other graduates composed of officers and Philippine Military Academy cadets, Guidicelli was awarded the Military Commendation Medal and was recognized as an outstanding student.
“They (undergone a month's) rigorous training where their physical and mental abilities (were) harnessed to prepare them to lead,” FSRR commander Brig. Gen. William Gonzales said.
“The physical aspect, given na mahirap (that it is difficult), pero (but) what got me is the first four days na (that had a) psychological effect sa akin (on me). Dahil galing ako sa civilian na buhay, isang araw lang yung transition ko at pumasok na ako sa military, akala ko kaya ko, pero sa totoo lang gusto ko nang umuwi (Because I came from civilian life, I had only one day of transition before entering the military. I though I can do it, but honestly, I already want to go home),” the actor said as he recalled his first days at the FSSR.
“As a civilian before, looking at soldiers, we give them so much respect. Now that I immerse, I live, I train with them, my respect for them has gone up that words cannot explain. Sila ang totoong (They are the real) VIP and without them, we wouldn’t be here, we wouldn’t be protected. The level of sacrifice a soldier goes through for their families, for their country, is beyond expectation,” he added.
During his speech, PA chief Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto told the new graduates to use all their lives important lessons they have learned during the training and use it as they move forward to become leaders and protectors of the country.
“Each one of you here has the potential to do great things, not just good things, but great and life-changing deeds,” he added. (PNA)
