Pyongyang, August 22 (KCNA) -- Following are major news items and articles in leading newspapers of the DPRK on Friday:

- A ceremony of awarding state commendations to the commanding officers and combatants of the overseas operation unit of the Korean People's Army was held. (Photos accompanied)

- The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un made a speech at the ceremony of awarding state commendations. (A photo accompanied)

- An artistic performance was given in honor of the commanding officers and combatants of the overseas operation unit of the KPA. (Photos accompanied)

- A grand banquet was given in honor of the commanding officers and combatants of the overseas operation unit of the KPA and bereaved families of the martyrs.

- The Nicaraguan ambassador to the DPRK visited the statues of President Kim Il Sung and Chairman Kim Jong Il on Mansu Hill to pay tribute to them.

Rodong Sinmun

- Foreign personages paid congratulatory visits to the DPRK missions in their countries on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation.

- An article discloses the purpose of the U.S. and the ROK warmongers who staged the joint marine corps drill on the eve of the Ulji Freedom Shield joint military exercises.

Minju Joson

- Officials of different units expressed their resolution to glorify this significant year with proud labor successes. -0-