Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy, Alexander Titolo, presented medals to members of the Serbian Armed Forces and Ministry of Defense for their outstanding achievements during joint service. This included attending military schools in the United States. These awards are a rare honor for members of partner countries' armed forces. Seventeen members of the Serbian Army and Ministry of Defense were recognized for their contributions on this occasion. The highest award was given to Colonel Miroslav Zečević, personally approved by the U.S. Secretary of Defense for exceptional achievement, which is awarded only to the best international officers.
Chargé d’Affaires Titolo highlighted the military cooperation between the two countries, stating: “The awarding of U.S. decorations to foreign soldiers is a rare honor, which speaks to the excellence demonstrated by these exemplary officers. Their accomplishments are in keeping with the finest traditions of both of our militaries and a testament to all we can achieve when through cooperation.” He further added, “We truly are stronger together.”
Colonel Zečević earned his award through outstanding results at the National Defense University in Washington. He emphasized: "What the Directorate for Development and Equipping is responsible for is the long-term planning and development of the Serbian Armed Forces’ capabilities. This recognition serves as a motivation to continue further in that direction."
Family members who lived in the United States during the joint service attended the award ceremony.
Since 2007, approximately 600 members of the Serbian Army and Ministry of Defense have attended U.S. military schools under the International Military Education and Training (IMET) program.