The Diplomat
Yesterday, the Minister of Defense, Margarita Robles, awarded around twenty decorations to personnel from the VI Parachute ‘Almogávares’ Brigade (BRIPAC) for their work in the XXXIX contingent that was deployed in Lebanon when the Gaza conflict broke out on October 7.
“I have always known first-hand the very high level of the Spanish contingent, its dedication and its great contribution to peace,” highlighted Minister Robles during the event, held at the BRIPAC headquarters in Paracuellos del Jarama, Madrid, and at the who awarded the Cross of Military Merit with a blue badge and a white badge and honorable mentions to a total of 21 members of the Brigade, including officers, non-commissioned officers and troops.
Previously, the head of Defense listened to the story of the head of BRIPAC, Brigadier General Luis Fernández Herrero, about the 50 intense days that his troops experienced after the start of hostilities in the area, which caused an increase in incidents in the area. border strip (the ‘blue line’) guarded by the ‘blue helmets’.
“Within the 55 kilometers that Spain controls, twelve positions are in the most stressed area of the border line and, starting on October 10, there was a very slight but gradual escalation of incidents,” which is why it had to be doubled security in the positions, explained the head of BRIPAC.
“The world knows that Spain and its Armed Forces will always be absolutely committed to peace, and precisely thanks to you,” responded Robles, who recalled the congratulations transmitted by the UN for the role of the Spanish Army in Lebanon. Next week, BRIPAC celebrates the 70th anniversary of the creation of the Army Parachute Forces.