In a solemn military ceremony presided over by Major General Jaime Alonso Galindo, deputy commander of the National Army, the School of Professional Soldiers graduated 2,941 new professional soldiers, prepared to strengthen security, sovereignty, and the protection of the civilian population throughout the national territory.
The cadets of Course No. 83—named in honor of professional soldier Juan Carlos Silva Argumedo (may he rest in peace), who gave his life in the line of duty in the department of Nariño—received their commissions after completing 10 weeks of rigorous technical, tactical, physical, and character-building training.
This comprehensive training process ensures the deployment of physically resilient, mentally strong, and ethically upright soldiers to serve the nation.
During these weeks, the cadets completed a rigorous training program that began with two weeks of comprehensive training focused on discipline, techniques, tactics, and procedures specific to the military arts. This was followed by a six-week period during which they specialized in individual tactical skills, such as the use of individual and collective weapons, precision and reconnaissance, operational techniques, and critical tactical certifications.
Finally, they concluded their training with evaluable practical exercises in an environment simulating the operational area at the Jamaica Tactical Complex.
This has highlighted strategic profiles in the handling and use of various types of weapons, such as rifles, the M-60 machine gun, the MGL (Multiple Grenade Launcher), the 60-mm mortar, and pistols. Similarly, and focused on tactical specialties, the program included ground navigators, trackers, and sharpshooters.
Furthermore, among the profiles sought for specialized technical personnel, those related to tactical combat intelligence, radio operators, and drone and anti-drone team assistants stood out. Finally, and of particular importance, the specialties of explosive ordnance reconnaissance (EOR) and military first responders are highlighted.
The ceremony also served as an occasion to recognize the excellence of outstanding cadets. The Soldier Pedro Pascasio Martínez Rojas Medal was awarded to those who ranked first in each of the cadet battalions, reflecting their honor and exceptional commitment to the cause.
Among those honored were professional soldiers Navarro González Juan Andrés, Vásquez Londoño Keilin Daniel, Orobio Angulo Carlos Dayan, and Castillo Viveros Julio Elvin, members of Cadet Battalions No. 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively.
The event was attended by the soldiers’ families, who serve as a fundamental pillar and source of moral support throughout their careers. With the completion of this process, the Military Academy for Professional Soldiers has established itself as an alma mater and a national leader in the training of the Military Forces, deploying men throughout the country’s various regions who are ready to serve the Colombian people, with excellence as the fundamental premise of their duty.
