The National Army of Colombia Honored Dr. José Benjamín Pérez Matos and Recognized His Trajectory of Service to Society

Palmira, Valle del Cauca, Colombia - June 12, 2026

At a ceremony held in Palmira, the 3rd Combat Engineer Battalion “Colonel Agustín Codazzi” presented a Resolution of Honor and various institutional recognitions to the founder of the Kingdom of Peace and Justice Center, highlighting his leadership, his contributions to society, and his commitment to the well-being of communities.

On June 12, 2026, the 3rd Combat Engineers Battalion “Colonel Agustín Codazzi,” a unit belonging to the National Army of the Republic of Colombia, held a special ceremony of commendation and recognition for Dr. José Benjamín Pérez Matos, in consideration of his trajectory, leadership, and contributions to the integral development of society in Colombia and Latin America.

The activity was led by Lieutenant Colonel Pedro Ariel Leguizamón Ochica, commander of the Agustín Codazzi Battalion, and was attended by officers, noncommissioned officers, soldiers, civilian personnel, special guests, and family members of the honoree.

During the ceremony, the Resolution of Honor and Recognition No. 001 of June 12, 2026, was officially read, by which the Battalion recognized the outstanding trajectory of Dr. José Benjamín Pérez Matos, highlighting his leadership, strategic vision, promotion of initiatives of high social impact, institutional commitment, and contribution to the strengthening of values that favor the progress of Colombia and Latin America.

Among the reasons set out in the resolution were his support for important infrastructure projects, the promotion of spaces for spiritual and social formation, as well as the many distinctions the honoree has received throughout his trajectory.

Recognitions Presented by the Agustín Codazzi Battalion

Following the formal presentation of the resolution, Lieutenant Colonel Pedro Ariel Leguizamón Ochica presented Dr. José Benjamín Pérez Matos with several recognitions representative of the military unit.

First, he received the traditional helmet of the military engineers, a symbol of the work carried out by engineering units to build infrastructure, open roads, and bring development to the most remote communities in the country.

Subsequently, he was presented with the Coat of Arms of the Agustín Codazzi Battalion, followed by the battalion’s institutional coin, considered one of the most appreciated symbols by its members.

During his remarks, the battalion commander highlighted that the work carried out by Dr. José Benjamín Pérez Matos has left a profound mark on numerous communities, and expressed the institution’s gratitude for his contributions to the spiritual, social, and institutional strengthening of thousands of people.

“It is an honor and a source of deep happiness”

When he took the floor, Dr. José Benjamín Pérez Matos expressed his gratitude for the distinction awarded by the National Army of Colombia and described the emotion he felt upon receiving recognition from an institution dedicated to the service of the nation.

“Good afternoon. It is an honor and a source of deep happiness for me to be here before you today to receive this recognition.”

Likewise, he stated:

“To bear a distinction that comes from the Agustín Codazzi Battalion is no small matter. This military unit represents the building of the nation, unwavering sacrifice, and ingenuity placed at the service of the homeland.”

And he added:

“To know that the work I have carried out with such dedication has been valued by men and women who give their lives daily for the safety and development of all Colombia, fills my heart with enormous joy.”

He later stated:

“I receive this recognition as a very important achievement in my life, and as a reminder that service to society is a duty that unites us all, both civilians and military personnel.”

Recognition of Colombian Soldiers

During his speech, Dr. José Benjamín Pérez Matos highlighted the work carried out by the members of the Military Forces and the role they play in the development and protection of the country.

“The discipline, responsibility, and dedication of all of you are the beacon that inspires citizens to work with greater determination for the future of all beautiful Colombia.”

Likewise, he thanked the commander of the unit personally for the tribute received.

“I wholeheartedly thank Mr. Lieutenant Colonel Pedro Ariel Leguizamón Ochica for this distinction that has been bestowed upon me. I commit myself to continue honoring it in each one of my actions, and to always maintain a bond of gratitude and unconditional support with all of you.”

Addressing the members of the Codazzi Battalion, he said:

“To all the members of the Codazzi Battalion: Thank you for your service, for protecting freedom, and for risking your lives for your fellow compatriots.”

From Present Service to the Future Kingdom

In one of the most notable moments of his message, Dr. José Benjamín Pérez Matos recalled words spoken recently during his visit to Israel.

“As I said recently, during my trip to Israel, where I had the opportunity to address the Army, more specifically the Yatar unit, of which I am part: very soon, in the Kingdom of the Messiah, weapons of war will be turned into work tools, just as the prophet Isaiah foretold.”

And he continued:

“Therefore, we are in the time in which that promise will become a beautiful reality. But until that glorious day comes, our mission does not stop; on the contrary, this is the moment to increase our efforts, to work with all our soul, and not give up.”

He likewise stated:

“Every bridge you build, every road you open, and every life you protect in this battalion, is a step forward toward that future of peace.”

And he added:

“Continue working with faith and excellence, because today’s work sows the seed of a strong, prosperous, and united nation, which we all long to see.”

Concluding his speech with the words:

“May God bless you, protect you always, in the fulfillment of your noble duty. Thank you very much.”

A Meeting Marked by Affection and Gratitude

Following the official ceremony, the military authorities offered a fellowship luncheon to the attendees. Subsequently, Dr. José Benjamín Pérez Matos toured the battalion’s facilities accompanied by Lieutenant Colonel Pedro Ariel Leguizamón Ochica.

During that tour, Dr. José Benjamín Pérez Matos expressed to the battalion commander:

“I’m very grateful, Colonel, for all of this. I wasn’t expecting it to be something so… so beautiful; it truly touched my heart.”

And he added:

“Everything was very beautiful. I will carry all of this with honor.”

Later, he stated:

“I am counting on you and on your Battalion.”

And he added:

“And I am counting on you as well for that glorious Kingdom.”

As a gesture of gratitude, Dr. José Benjamín Pérez Matos presented the commander with an institutional pin from the Kingdom of Peace and Justice Center.

“I would like to give you, to gift you, this pin from the Kingdom of Peace and Justice Center, which I represent. Would you give me the honor of placing it on you?”

And he concluded that moment with an expression filled with affection:

“And always remember… remember me always.”

Finally, before departing, he received another gift from a noncommissioned officer of the Colombian Army, to which he responded:

“Oh, thank you. You’re very kind. Thank you, thank you, thank you. God bless you.”

The day concluded with multiple expressions of affection, gratitude, and mutual respect, consolidating the ties between Dr. José Benjamín Pérez Matos, the Kingdom of Peace and Justice Center, and the authorities of the National Army of Colombia.