Ambassador Gil-Casares spent 13 years in the United States. His profound understanding of the American and Spanish cultures enabled him to build new and lasting bridges between the two countries. His tireless dedication to the development of ever stronger bonds between the nations is greatly appreciated and will be remembered in years to come.
The Farragut Award, recently created by USEC, is given to individuals that have shown an effort above and beyond the call of duty to foster relations between both countries. For the 2017 edition, the board of USEC selected Ambassador Gil-Casares, who received the award in a private ceremony on March 23rd just a few days before returning to Spain at the end of his term.
“The Ambassador and the whole Embassy’s efforts to support USEC and our objectives have been most generous and effective. The Farragut Award is a small measure of the recognition they deserve,” declared Gonzalo García, president of USEC.
Martín Gurria, board member and award committee director, was also part of the ceremony. “The Farragut Award honors the Farragut family and
its service to our nation: Jordi (George), a native of the island of Menorca, Spain and his son David. The Farragut Award epitomizes the true joining of spirits between Spain and the U.S. Jordi, fought for America’s freedom and independence in the Revolutionary War. David, a proud naval lieutenant, became the firstnaval officer to hold the rank of full Admiralin the U.S. Navy due to his valor and commitment to the new nation. USEC’s goal is for this award to shed light on the Farraguts’ amazing patriotic example as well as on the U.S. Navy and its brave sailors. It’s a true inspiration for all Hispanics and the American people,” said Gurria.
“Ambassador Gil-Casares is a great friend of the Spanish-American community in Washington DC, he will be deeply missed”, said Jose Montero, another member of the board of USEC who participated in the ceremony.
