Ivana Spanovic winner of Karadjordje Star of third degree! (PHOTO)

I feel great pride to be here in the company of decorated people, Ivana said after the ceremony

On National Day, Serbian President Tomislav Nikolic has signed decrees on awarding numerous people and institutions, and among them is Serbian athlete Ivana Spanovic.   

Ivana received a medal of Karadjordje star of third degree on the ceremony held in the Presidency building, for special merits in representing the Republic of Serbia and its citizens, and achieving top results in field of sports.

- I am extremely honored to be awarded with this medal and I feel great pride today, being among the decorated group of people, people who have devoted their working life to their dreams, I firmly believe that their work and actions can change and improve our society. This is the same pride I feel when I perform for this country, defending the colors of the Serbia on the purest and most dignified way that I can.

- With all due respect to the results achieved, people who risked their lives to save others and give the chance for life will always have my deep respect and admiration, for me, medals for humanity are actions, fight for respect of human rights and basic Freedoms, without a doubt. I congratulate to all winners and to all citizens of Serbia i wish a happy National day - said Ivana Spanovic after the ceremony.

Besides Ivana, the medal of Karadjordjeva Zvezda of third degree was give to the former selector of the female basketball team of Serbia, Marina Maljkovic, and to tennis player Jelena Jankovic.

(Telegraf.co.uk)