Venezuela honors 6,000 rescuers after devastating earthquake

Acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez has decorated 6,000 rescue workers and their canine partners for their exceptional service in the aftermath of a devastating double earthquake. The ceremony recognized the bravery and dedication shown by these individuals and animals who worked tirelessly following the magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 tremors on June 24.

Rodríguez lauded the rescuers' uniforms as symbols of honor and dignity, highlighting their collective effort with 30,000 officials to manage the seismic catastrophe. She emphasized their perseverance in seemingly impossible conditions, stating, "There you persevered for the life of a Venezuelan, of a human being, there was the spirit of being Venezuelan, of never abandoning, of always accompanying."

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Today I tell you with sincerity, that your uniforms are more honorable, that your uniforms have much dignity, because the task that you collectively accomplished with 30,000 officials to address the seismic catastrophe, you addressed it at the height.

The event, broadcast on state television Venezolana de Televisión (VTV), also saw the participation of Interior and Justice Minister Diosdado Cabello and National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez, the acting president's brother. Honorees included personnel from the National Bolivarian Armed Forces, Civil Protection, firefighters, various police forces, scientific investigation units, forensic services, and the Venezuelan Red Cross.

Nearly a month after the earthquakes struck northern Venezuela, particularly the La Guaira state, the official toll stands at 5,119 fatalities and 16,740 injured. The disaster also displaced thousands, with 6,462 individuals rescued and 21,470 housed in 107 temporary camps. The government's recognition of the rescue teams underscores the profound impact of their efforts in a national tragedy.

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There you persevered for the life of a Venezuelan, of a Venezuelan woman, of a human being, there was the spirit of being Venezuelan, of never abandoning, of always accompanying.