Venezuela Honors 6,000 Rescue Workers After Devastating Earthquakes

Venezuela's acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, bestowed honors upon 6,000 rescue workers and their canine companions for their critical work in the aftermath of a powerful double earthquake. The ceremony recognized the immense efforts deployed after the magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 tremors on June 24. "Today I tell you with sincerity, that your uniforms are more honorable, that your uniforms have much dignity," Rodríguez stated during a televised event. She commended the 30,000 officials who responded to the seismic catastrophe, asserting they handled the crisis at the highest level. Rodríguez emphasized the rescuers' unwavering dedication, noting their persistence in seemingly impossible situations to save lives. "There you persevered for the life of a Venezuelan, of a Venezuelan woman, of a human being. There was the spirit and the soul of being Venezuelan, of never abandoning, of always accompanying," she added, underscoring the national spirit of resilience. The president also acknowledged the personal sacrifices of the rescue personnel, many of whom suffered losses of family or colleagues in the disaster. The honored individuals included members from the National Bolivarian Armed Forces, Civil Protection, firefighters, the Bolivarian National Police, and scientific investigation units, among others. The devastating earthquakes struck northern Venezuela nearly a month prior, with La Guaira state being severely impacted. The latest figures report 5,119 fatalities and 16,740 injuries, with 6,462 people rescued and thousands still housed in temporary camps.

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Today I tell you with sincerity, that your uniforms are more honorable, that your uniforms have much dignity.