ABU DHABI — President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Monday called for the Fallen Frontline Heroes Order to be awarded to those who died of coronavirus while working on the frontlines of the country's battle against the pandemic.

The establishment of the award was based on a proposal by Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, who is also the deputy supreme commander of the armed forces and head of the Fakhr Al Watan Office (Frontline Heroes Office).

The award seeks to recognize the dedication, courage, and sacrifice made by medics who treated coronavirus patients before themselves being infected with the disease and is an expression of gratitude to them and their families.

Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed called on Monday the families of the fallen heroes.

During the phone conversations, Sheikh Mohamed expressed thanks and appreciation for the great role they played and the dedication they demonstrated while working to combat the pandemic. He said the Emirati community will never forget their sacrifices.

"We are very proud of our heroes who lived with us and were part of our social fabric. They worked hard to protect our health and to ensure our safety during difficult times," he said.

Sheikh Mohamed added that the people of the UAE cherish their heroes, Emiratis and residents alike, look up to them as role models and value their sacrifices.

"The UAE will never forget the sacrifices made by Dr. Sudhir Rambhau Washimkar, nurse Lezly Orione, Anvar Ali, Ahmed Al Sebaei, Dr. Bassam Bernieh and other heroes who sacrificed their lives to protect our loved ones. The families of the heroes of humanity are part of our society and the UAE will always support and stand by them."

The families of fallen heroes expressed their appreciation to Sheikh Mohamed's calls, commending the UAE leadership for their noble initiatives. They also underlined Sheikh Mohamed's keenness to personally attend to their needs.

They also expressed pride over the sacrifices of their heroes and prayed to Allah Almighty to bless the Emirati leadership with continued good health, and the UAE and its people with a prosperous future. — SG