Andina

Peru: President leads ceremony for 81st anniversary of Jose Quiñones sacrifice

Photo: ANDINA/Presidency of the Republic of Peru

Photo: ANDINA/Presidency of the Republic of Peru

13:31 | Lima, Jul. 23.

The President of the Republic Pedro Castillo headed the ceremony commemorating the 81st anniversary of the immolation of Air Force Captain Jose Abelardo Quiñones and Peruvian Air Force Day, which was held at Las Palmas Air Base in Lima on Saturday.

As part of the ceremony, the National Anthem was sung, floral wreaths were placed in homage to the heroes of this institution. Later, a parade took place.

On May 10, 1966, former President Fernando Belaunde declared Jose Abelardo Quiñones a national hero for his acts at the Battle of Zarumilla. Thus, the former Head of State ordered that every July 23 the Military Aviation Day be commemorated in Peru.

The Peruvian Air Force was born with the fundamental mission of national defense in the air field.

Its origins date back to May 1929, when the Peruvian Aviation Corps (CAP) was created, with the only provision being the unification of the different air services and activities in the country and establishing uniform conditions for all aviation personnel. In 1950, it was renamed the Peruvian Air Force (FAP).

At present, its staff is trained and prepared to respond promptly and effectively to new threats to national security, as well as in the fight against narcoterrorism, illegal logging, smuggling, and illegal mining.

Likewise, it participates in the transfer of passengers, cargo, humanitarian aid, aeromedical evacuations, and launching airlifts in case of emergency linked to natural disasters.

Moreover, it supports State-run institutions to cope with frost and snowfall in Andean areas, as well as cold spell in the country's jungle.

Today's event also saw the presence of Congress Chairwoman Maria del Carmen Alva, as well as the heads of various ministries and members of the three Armed Forces.

(END) NDP/JCC/MVB

Published: 7/23/2022