Ex-Philippine Navy chief feted with US medal

MANILA, Philippines — Retired Philippine Navy Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano received a high military award from the United States Pacific Fleet for "meritorious service" in the armed forces.

Admiral Harry Harris Jr., commander of the Pacific Fleet, gave Alano a Legion of Merit medal in a ceremony Tuesday at the US Embassy in Manila.

The event was graced by US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg and Alano's family.

The Legion of Merit is traditionally awarded to members of the US armed forces. It was only in 2008 when the US government granted the medal to personnel of partner foreign militaries who  distinguished themselves by exceptional conduct while in service.

According to his government profile, Alano led the Navy's Naval Air Force Group and Northern Luzon Naval Forces before being appointed commander of the entire fleet in 2012.

Alano previously received three Distinguished Service Stars, Outstanding Achievement Medal, Gawad sa Kaunlaran and the Military Merit Medal with Spearhead Device.

Alano was replaced by Vice Admiral Jesus Milan as chief of the Philippine Navy in May 2014.