The Diplomat
The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, received this Thursday from the hands of the Minister of Defense, Margarita Robles, the Grand Cross of Aeronautical Merit with white insignia.
“You have always been brave, and during the time you have been a high representative you have left the Spanish and European flag very high,” said Robles during the event, held at the Headquarters of the Air and Space Force.
According to the minister, the decoration is awarded by the Air and Space Forces, but “it belongs to all the Armed Forces, to all Spanish society, which admires men with convictions, principles and courage.”
The Minister of Defense recalled that, during his time at the head of European diplomacy and defense, Borrell has been very involved with the conflicts that we are currently experiencing, “always loudly and clearly defending peace and our values,” in Lebanon, Gaza or Ukraine.
In his words of thanks, Borrell recalled his time as a lieutenant in the university air militias in Burgos “as one of the richest experiences of my life” and assured that he has “always” felt “great admiration for the Armies and the men and women who serve in them.”
“Everywhere I have been able to see the high level of training that our armies have today, which are not in vain considered today by the Spanish as the most appreciated institution, along with the Civil Guard. And it will be for a reason,” Borrell continued.
The Grand Cross of Aeronautical Merit with white insignia for civilian personnel aims to reward and distinguish individuals for meritorious activities related to national defense.
