Ceci and kids

On March 28, Master Sergeant Valentin (Val) Larios passed away in Bogota, Colombia. He is survived by his wife Cecilia, daughter Eva, and son Gus (and of course beloved behemoth of a dog, Emilio Simón Larios).

Val was an esteemed member of our Mission and beloved colleague, carrying out the important work of personnel recovery for the U.S. military in Colombia. As the Senior Enlisted Leader for the Security Cooperation Office, Val led 25 enlisted personnel and mentored 80 permanent party military members. A master parachutist with 183 career jumps, Val wore many hats in addition to his responsibilities for personnel recovery in support of the Mission’s anti-terrorism and anti-narcotics efforts with our Colombian partners. During his assignment in Colombia, Val was instrumental in carrying out multiple personnel recovery events and life-saving MEDEVAC missions. His leadership and operational expertise directly contributed to saving five American lives and the rescue of a U.S. citizen abducted by terrorists in a remote location. Val’s career with the U.S. Air Force was one of selfless, dedicated public service for the United States Government and American people.

There will be many expenses in the days, weeks, months ahead as the family will return back to the United States. Please help us support them in any way you can.

Gracias por todo (thanks for everything)