The Chief of Defense presides over the National Day ceremony at the Combined Air Operations Center in Torrejón

• During the ceremony, decorations were also awarded to military personnel stationed at this Center

The Chief of Defense (CHOD), Admiral General Teodoro Esteban López Calderón, presided over the National Day commemorative ceremony held at the Combined Air Operations Center in Torrejón (CAOC).

Upon arrival at the Center, the Chief of the General was welcomed by the Commander-in-Chief of the CAOC, Lieutenant General Juan Pablo Sánchez de Lara, who accompanied him to the venue where the ceremony was held.

The ceremony began with the raising of the Spanish national flag to the sound of the national anthem. Lieutenant General Sánchez de Lara then addressed those present, highlighting our country's commitment to the Atlantic Alliance and to the defense of common values since its incorporation in 1982, "contributing the highest standards of professionalism, solidarity, and commitment, not only from Spain and neighboring countries for integrated cross-border air policing operations, but also with a permanent 360-degree approach through recurring deployments in which it participates." He also thanked the staff working at the Combined Air Operations Center for their daily efforts, saying, "Thank you for your professionalism. In an environment that demands unwavering concentration, precision, flexibility, proactivity, and teamwork, each of you exemplifies the highest standards of excellence. Every day, you carry out complex activities, make or advise on critical decisions, and face difficult circumstances, always prioritizing the fulfillment of our mission."

Afetrwards, decorations were awarded to Spanish military personnel stationed at the Center, as well as to Portuguese Air Force Brigadier General Paulo Américo Oliveira de Costa, who was awarded the Cross of Aeronautical Merit.

Following this ceremony, the Chief of Defense addressed the recipients and all those in attendance, emphasizing that “this ceremony is an opportunity to demonstrate, once again, our commitment to NATO and our allies. A commitment and joint effort for collective security and defense that, in these turbulent and complex times we are experiencing, is more important than ever.”

The Chief of Defense also highlighted the important work of the personnel assigned to the CAOC, "all NATO members who work here on a daily basis have the important task of dealing with any threat that may affect the Alliance from the airspace, a daily effort that contributes to the security of all citizens in southern Europe. Therefore, I cannot end my remarks without expressing my gratitude to you for protecting our citizens and safeguarding the principles of democracy and the rule of law."