LIMA, June 25 (NNN-ANDINA) — The late Defense Minister Jose Huerta received funeral honors upon arrival at Las Palmas Air Base in Lima’s Surco district on Monday afternoon.
His body arrived onboard a Peruvian Air Force (FAP) plane shortly after 3 PM and received the honors by the Armed Forces and National Police.
The coffin was carried by commanders general of each of the three armed forces.
The ceremony saw the presence of Peru’s Vice-President Mercedes Araoz, Prime Minister Salvador del Solar, Ministers Nestor Popolizio (Foreign Affairs), Vicente Zeballos (Justice and Human Rights), and Zulema Tomas (Health), as well as other Executive Branch and Armed Forces authorities.
The tribute included a brief paraliturgical service.
His remains will be taken to the Army Headquarters in San Isidro district for a wake.
Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra lamented the passing away of Defense Minister Jose Huerta, adding he died serving the homeland.
“I deeply lament the passing away of Defense Minister Jose Huerta, who left us while serving his homeland. This is painful news that deeply saddens us. My heartfelt condolences to his family,” the Head of State expressed via Twitter.
Huerta died at 71 on Monday morning during a visit to the jungle
in El Cenepa district (Amazonas Region) . He was scheduled to carry out some activities linked to his sector.
According to the first reports, the cabinet member fainted and was immediately taken by helicopter to a health center in Santa Maria de Nieva district.
He died at approximately 10 AM (local time). — NNN-ANDINA
