Press Releases 2005

August 15, 2005

Condolence Message

The nations participating in the 2005 PANAMAX exercise express our profound condolences to the Government of Panama, the people of Panama, and the families of our three deceased Panamanian comrades, who lost their lives Sunday in a tragic accident.

The accident happened during a training exercise that prepared Panamanian public force members for rescue operations involving possible threats to the Panama Canal. They lost their lives in the service of their nation, preparing to protect Panama and its people.

We are grateful to our fallen friends’ families for the service and dedication of Sergeant First Class Luis Pérez Becerra, Seaman Jackson Jairo Angulo Valderrama and Seaman Omar A. Durán Rico. Their service to Panama’s security and to international cooperation will not be forgotten.

From:

Rear Adm. Vinson Smith, Commander, Joint Task Force
Participating Countries:
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
Honduras
Panama
Perú
United States of America
Observers:
Canadá
Costa Rica
El Salvador
France
Mexico
Uruguay