The ‘Juan Sebastián de Elcano’ pays tribute to Blas de Lezo in Cartagena de Indias

Last March 2nd the crew and midshipmen of Spanish Navy training ship ‘Juan Sebastián de Elcano’ paid tribute to the illustrious sailor Lieutenant General Blas de Lezo during a port of call in Cartagena de Indias (Colombia).

In the very location where he led the troops defending this important stronghold against a large British fleet, a wreath laying ceremony was organized attended by the Spanish Ambassador to Colombia Mr. Pablo Gómez de Olea, Vice-admiral Ignacio Horcada, Secretary of the 5th Centenary Commission commemorating the first circumnavigation of the globe, the ship’s CO Captain Ignacio Paz and the Superintendent of the Colombian Naval Academy, Rear admiral Francisco Hernando Cubides.

The ceremony was jointly organized by Spain and Colombia, with both national anthems played by the music bands of the two navies. A historical review was read prior to the wreath laying ceremony and a firing salute. The text stressed, among other things, the following:

"In defense of the honor of Spain, he enforced the law of the seas and left shreds of his own body fighting for his King and his Flag. Always unbeaten in battle, his exploits created worldwide fame but to mention all of them would exceed the time of this ceremony that today brings us together...

But it was here, in the waters and soil of Cartagena, where Destiny wanted Blas de Lezo to sign his unblemished record with an immortal feat...

... and his example is still alive in our memory and serves as a motivation for those of us who have the duty to serve Spain and Colombia, with the same courage, loyalty and generosity as those who preceded us”.