On the occasion of National Day, President Nicușor Dan decorated war veteran Ion Vasile Banu with the Order of Military Virtue in the rank of Knight.

At the age of 107, Banu is recognized for his courage, having a remarkable military career, starting with the fight for the liberation of Bessarabia in 1941 and continuing on the front at the Don Bend in 1942. The President emphasized the importance of his sacrifice and that of others like him, who defended Romania's ideals of freedom. The distinction awarded is a tribute to the entire generation of heroes and represents recognition of his exceptional services, as well as his involvement in the community after the war. This was the only decoration awarded on National Day, a symbolic gesture of respect and gratitude.