Major Floren Herrera Becomes First Filipino To Receive West Point’s Nininger Award For Valor at Arms

Major Floren Herrera, recognized for his exceptional leadership and valor during the Marawi conflict, receives the Alexander R. Nininger Award for Valor at Arms, presented by Lieutenant General Steven Gilland (behind Major Herrera) and Colonel Mark D. Bieger (left) at West Point, New York. (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas)

NEW YORK CITY, 11 October 2024 – Major Floren P. Herrera made history as the first Filipino and non-American to receive the prestigious Alexander R. Nininger Award for Valor at Arms, conferred by the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point. Major Herrera, currently serving in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), has gained recognition for his leadership in critical counterterrorism operations.

A graduate of West Point in 2013, Major Herrera was honored for his bravery and leadership during the five-month Battle of Marawi in 2017, where he led his platoon against over 1,000 foreign militants and local terrorists. His tactical expertise and decisive actions, including the neutralization of key enemy leaders, were instrumental in saving the lives of his fellow soldiers. For his heroism, Major Herrera was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Star, the Philippines’ second-highest honor for valor, and four Gold Cross Medals, the third-highest.

In his remarks, Major Herrera stressed the importance of leading by example and creating a lasting impact that inspires and empowers others long after one's own service or leadership ends. (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas)

In his acceptance remarks, Major Herrera reflected on his journey as a leader and the sacrifices made by his fellow soldiers. He emphasized that true success is not measured by rank or accolades, but by the sustainable difference one makes in the lives of others and in the organizations they lead. Major Herrera paid tribute to the fallen heroes of the Marawi siege, vowing to honor their bravery and remember their sacrifices. “Amid the evolving security landscape, it is crucial to remain steadfast in advancing the causes for which they fought — for duty, honor, and country,” he said.

Prior to the award presentation, a separate ceremony was held in which Major Herrera was presented with a commemorative US Congressional Gold Medal Coin in honor of Filipino World War II veterans for their service alongside US forces. Additionally, a portrait of General Douglas MacArthur, painted by Filipino artist Angelo Antonio Maristela, was unveiled and donated to the West Point Association of Graduates (AOG) by Dr. Lestrino Baquiran, a US-based Filipino internist.

[From left: Ret. US Consul General Sonny Busa, Major Floren Herrera, PH Permanent Representative to the United Nations Amb. Antonio Lagdameo, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile, and Ret. Ambassadors Mario de Leon, Jr. and Cecilia Rebong, both former Consuls General in New York] Consul General Busa, himself a Filipino graduate of West Point, presents a commemorative Congressional Gold Medal Coin to Major Herrera. While Major Herrera did not serve in World War II, the medal given to him represents the strong historical ties between the Philippines and the US. (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas)
Dr. Lestrino Baquiran (left), Filipino artist Angelo Antonio Maristela (right), and AOG officials unveil the portrait of General Douglas MacArthur, which will be permanently displayed at the West Point Museum. Dr. Baquiran, whose father was a World War II veteran, emphasized the painting as a tribute to the shared sacrifices between the Philippines and the US, noting it evokes solemn remembrance and deep gratitude, especially from the Filipino people. (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas)

During the ceremony, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile praised Major Herrera’s courage and leadership, emphasizing the significance of the award presentation during Filipino American History Month. He remarked, “We see Major Herrera as an embodiment of this enduring relationship and an exemplar of the legacy of friendship and partnership between the Philippines and the United States. His achievements, especially recognized during this important month, highlight the deep historical ties and shared values that continue to strengthen the bond between our two nations.”

Consul General Mangalile emphasized in his remarks that Major Herrera’s achievements embody the enduring spirit of partnership and camaraderie between the Philippines and the United States. (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas)

The Nininger Award, introduced in 2006, is presented annually by the West Point AOG to recognize a graduate who has demonstrated exceptional courage in combat. Named after Second Lieutenant Alexander R. Nininger, USMA Class of 1941, who died during the Battle of Bataan in the Philippines during World War II, the award represents the bravery of all West Point-commissioned officers who have led soldiers in battle. END