In recognition of its courage, professionalism, and outstanding work in the search and rescue operations following the twin earthquakes in Venezuela,
the Order of Merit of the Diplomatic Service of Peru "Jose Gregorio Paz Soldan."
The distinction was conferred in the rank of Grand Cross.
Held on Tuesday, the ceremony was attended by Interior Minister Jose Zapata, CGBVP Deputy Commander Jose Medina Arzola, CGBVP Senior Brigadier Claudio Saenz, and USAR Peru Group members.
Also in attendance was Kaira, a Belgian Malinois whose search and rescue skills have made her a key member of this elite team.
Foreign Affairs Minister Pareja said the decoration—conferred under Ministerial Resolution No. 447-2026-RE—was awarded in recognition of the courageous work carried out by the USAR Peru Group during the earthquake emergency that struck Venezuela last month.
"For more than a week, they worked under extreme conditions to locate and rescue people trapped beneath collapsed structures," the government official indicated.
"Their dedication found its most moving expression in the rescue of a 60-year-old woman who had remained trapped under the rubble of a building for nearly three days," he pointed out.
"Nor is it a coincidence that following the earthquake that struck Junin region on July 18, the Venezuelan Government conveyed its solidarity with Peru and its willingness to cooperate," he noted.
In turn, Interior Minister Jose Zapata mentioned that the USAR Peru Group had demonstrated that his fellow citizens are always willing to extend a helping hand when a sister nation needs it most.
The USAR Peru Group was also recently awarded the "Hero of Venezuela" Medal by said country’s Acting President Delcy Rodriguez in recognition of its valuable role in rescuing victims in La Guaira.
Publicado: 22/7/2026