Defence Minister Uraiqit Ramsaran on Tuesday awarded departing United States defence official Lieutenant Commander Tony Leguia the Medal for Special Merit in the rank of Commander. Leguia received the decoration for his contribution to defence cooperation between Suriname and the United States.
The term of service of Leguia as Senior Defense Official of the US military liaison office, USMLO, in Suriname has come to an end. According to Ramsaran, his efforts strengthened the defence relationship between the two countries at both strategic and operational levels.
The minister pointed, among other things, to Leguia’s contribution to the establishment of the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement. This agreement is aimed at improving logistical support, cooperation between the armed forces and operational readiness.
In addition, according to the minister, Leguia contributed to strengthening Suriname’s maritime security capacity and the operational capacity of the Nationaal Leger. He also worked to support medical and other army operations and for education and training opportunities for Surinamese military personnel.
Leguia further played a role in facilitating high-level meetings between the two countries. Ramsaran expressed his appreciation for the open and professional cooperation. “Your contribution has produced tangible results for Suriname,” the minister said.
The commander of the Nationaal Leger, Brigadier General Mitchell Labadie, stressed that cooperation with the United States contributes to stronger institutions, greater military capacity and stability in the region.
According to Labadie, Leguia strengthened ties between the armed forces of both countries and promoted strategic cooperation. “You have represented your country with honour and earned the respect and appreciation of the Surinamese armed forces,” the commander said.
