KUCHING: The late Datuk Sgt Awang Raweng was a very simple and humble person during his lifetime, said Rangers Corp Veteran Association (PVTKR) vice president Lt Col Fabian Wong Boon Soon.
“He does not show off and you hardly see him in luxury,” he said halfway with teary eyes while reminiscing about the late Awang.
He recalled the moment when the late Awang was invited to grace a programme in Sungai Petani in 1964 and how the George Cross medal’s stories inspired many during the programme.
“His presence encouraged many to want to become brave soldiers during the event. So, I hope Sarawakians in general, can also learn to be brave, following the late Awang’s footsteps.
“Don’t be afraid and run away your responsibilities. If there’s a fight, we must fight until the end,” he said when paying his last respects to the late Awang at a final tribute ceremony held at Kuching Civic Centre here on Sunday.
The late Awang was a former Iban scout with the 10th Platoon, D Company, First Battalion of the Worcestershire Regiment, who was highly respected for his exploits against communist threats in 1951.
Awang was the nation’s sole recipient of the George Cross — the second highest award in the United Kingdom’s honours system after the Victoria Cross — on Nov 20, 1951.
The 91-year-old passed away around 2.15pm on Friday (Sept 18) at his son’s residence at Taman Padri, Sri Aman.
