During a visit to the Tolemaida military base on Thursday, U.S Army General Laura Richardson, Commander of the United States Southern Command – South Com – emphasized the importance of defending democracy amid rising threats from China, Russia and Iran. Speaking on behalf of the United States, General Richardson assured Colombia of unwavering support in countering challenges that seek to undermine its democratic integrity.
“There are threats that seek to displace democracies,” General Richardson declared, highlighting the importance of solidarity in the face of such dangers “We unite forces so that democracy can prevail,” she highlighted during a press conference. Her words underscored a commitment to international cooperation, particularly between the United States and Colombia.
General Richardson also conveyed a personal promise: “My promise to you is that we will always be your partners, and you can trust us.” This statement reinforced the longstanding bilateral relations between the two nations, particularly in matters of security and defense.
The occasion for General Richardson’s visit was the handover of 10 military bridges from the United States to Colombia, valued at over US$100 million. These semi-permanent modular structures, or military bridges, were handed-over to the Colombian Military during a cermony at the largest military base in the country. The bridges are intended to address potential emergencies across the country, especially in anticipation of the upcoming winter season.
Each Acrow bridge, made of durable metal, is over 60 meters long and nearly four meters wide, capable of supporting approximately 52 tons. This robust construction ensures their utility in a variety of challenging environments. The delivery was personally conducted by General Richardson, who handed the bridges over to General Helder Giraldo, Commander of the Colombian Armed Forces.
The donation is the result of continuous diplomatic and military engagement, particularly through General Giraldo’s efforts during his visits to the United States Southern Command. This collaboration highlights the strategic partnership between the two military establishments, focusing on enhancing infrastructure and emergency response capabilities in Colombia.
On average, these military bridges are assembled in 7 to 10 days by skilled military engineers. Over the past 19 months, these engineers have installed 13 military bridges in various regions, including Casanare, Santander, Cundinamarca, Norte de Santander, Chocó, Magdalena, Nariño, and Antioquia. These installations have been crucial in ensuring connectivity and accessibility in areas prone to natural disasters and other emergencies.
General Laura Richardson is a distinguished members of the US Armed Forces, noted for being the first female commander of U.S. Southern Command. Her extensive military career spans over three decades, during which she has commanded at the tactical, operational, and strategic levels. In 2003, she led an assault helicopter batallion during combat missions in Iraq.
Throughout her service, General Richardson has received numerous accolades, including the Distinguished Leadership Award. Her leadership is characterized by a commitment to fostering international partnerships and enhancing the capabilities of allied nations.
The recent donation of military bridges reinforces the strategic partnership between the United States and Colombia, and signifies a joint commitment to enhancing infrastructure for vulnerable populations.
