05.05. - 3 - Speech Of The Day - 16th LIBERATION ANNIVERSARY TO OVER 700 OFFICERS & MEN

On Sunday, May 5,1957, the Sixteenth Anniversary

of Ethiopia's liberation was celebrated all

over the Empire. To the over 700 officers & men

assembled in front of the Palace His Imperial

Majesty Haile Selassie I made the following

speech:

"We are happy, according to our regulation promulgated

in 1951, which provides for rewarding members of

the military and the police who have served Us with

loyalty and merit, to decorate you with this medal as

token of services rendered.

Those of your number who through the call of

duty or other circumstances, could not be present here,

We have ordered that they receive their medals in the

same spirit as if they were in Our presence. Your steadfastness

in duty pleases Us; and since your tasks are

important you should continue to devote yourselves to

them so that you may remain worthwhile in the future.

Loyalty being as praiseworthy as it is, you should strive

to maintain it as a principle."

Speeches delivered by His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie Ist Emperor of Ethiopia on various occasions - page 4 -