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IAAFA receives high honor from Colombian air force

  • Published
  • By Meredith Canales
  • 37th Training Wing Public Affairs
LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The nation of Colombia recognized the Inter-American Air Forces Academy for its impact in anti-terrorist and counter-drug training for the country.  

Colombian air force commanding general, Gen. Jorge Ballesteros, presented the Colombian Air Force Cross to IAAFA Commandant Col. Maria Cordero during a ceremony at Madrid, Colombia.

During the ceremony, General Ballesteros told Colonel Cordero that the Colombian air force appreciates the contributions of IAAFA and looks forward to increasing future engagements at all levels. 

In addition to receiving the cross, Colonel Cordero received a statue of the founder of the Colombian air force's NCO professional and technical school: Escuela de Suboficiales de la Fuerza Aerea Colombiana. The statue is on display at IAAFA's headquarters, along with the cross. 

During the visit, Colonel Cordero also participated in the inauguration of an aircraft avionics laboratory that ESUFA had recently created for training purposes. 

Chief Master Sgt. Andres Alvarez, IAAFA Superintendent, said the cross serves as a symbol of the dedication of members of IAAFA to their jobs. 

"It's an honor to have an air force like that recognize the efforts, long hours, dedication, impact and travel we do," he said. "Colombia is a hostile fire area because of terrorist threats, so they can really appreciate what we do. It's a prestigious award to have for all of our missions."