The Government of Norway honored Pakistan Air Force veteran Muhammad Rafiq and Mohammad Iqbal with medals for their noble deed in foiling a gun attack on the Al-Noor Islamic Centre last year.

They were given the medals on the one-year anniversary of the attack. Minister of Trade and Industry Iselin Nybø presented the honors during a ceremony in Bærum town hall on Monday afternoon.

Last year in August, a gunman, Philip Manshaus opened fire on the Al-Noor mosque, on the outskirts of the capital Oslo. However, Rafiq and Iqbal apprehended the attacker, until police arrived.

They both wrestled Manshaus, who came with the intent to 'kill as many Muslims as possible' down to the ground. Manshaus was sentenced to 21 years in prison for murder and terrorism.

Both Rafiq and Iqbal were awarded for overpowering the Norwegian man. Rafiq was awarded the gold medal of honor for 'distinguishing himself with an extraordinary effort in overpowering the perpetrator'.

Meanwhile, Iqbal was awarded the Medal for Noble Deed in Silver. "Iqbal’s efforts were crucial in overpowering the perpetrator," the Norwegian government said in a statement.