An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

News Search

Colombian LNO to AFSOUTH recognized for meritorious service

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Adam Grant
  • 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern) Public Affairs
A Colombian Air Force Liaison Officer assigned to 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern) was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal here, Wednesday.

Col. Javier I. Delgado, 12th AF (AFSOUTH) Colombian liaison officer, earned the medal for his outstanding service to the United States as Colombian liaison officer. His leadership was vital in the joining of forces between his nation's air force and the United States Air Force to synchronize efforts in countering transitional organized crime in Central America.

"Having him here at 12th AF (AFSOUTH) has been amazing, his countless efforts to unite both the United States and the Colombian Air Force have been crucial," said Col. David Delmonaco, Director, 12th AF (AFSOUTH) Plans and Programs (A5).

Delgado, who was assigned here from December 15, 2012 until December 14, 2013, was instrumental in integrating members of the Brazilian, Chilean, Colombian and United States Air Force into Angel Thunder 2013, an interagency search and rescue exercise. He was also the lynchpin between the Colombian Air Force Commander and the Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force in reaching resolution on action items resulting in the 2012 Operator Engagement talks.

"This experience has allowed me to know more about the United States Air Force, which being the biggest Air Force has a plethora of both knowledge and experience to learn from," said Delgado. "I've learned a lot during my time here and I'd like to take some of the information back to help improve my organization."

Delgado's daily involvement with the Air Forces Southern staff yielded numerous results that included one major Air Force exercise, an international air show, ten multi-discipline subject matter exchanges, military personnel exchange program for language instructors, and the transfer of A-37 simulators to Colombia.

"Receiving this award was a surprise for me, I'm very focused on the work that I do and at times I've wanted to do more, to have leadership acknowledge the work that I've done is very special and to be given such an award is an honor," said Delgado.

The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who distinguishes themselves by either outstanding achievement or meritorious service to the United States.