Senior Paraguayan Army Major General Nery Torres Laconich, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Paraguayan Military Forces, was awarded the Legion of Merit during a ceremony at the Military Forces Command in Asunción, August 13, 2025.
The decoration, one of the highest U.S. military honors that can be awarded to foreign military personnel, was presented by U.S. Army Major General Javier Reina, deputy commander for Mobilization and Reserve Affairs, U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).
The award recognizes exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements, and is approved by the U.S. Secretary of Defense. The ceremony was attended by Paraguay’s Minister of National Defense Óscar González; General Cesar Moreno Landaira, the Paraguayan Military chief of Defense; U.S. Embassy officials; senior leaders from the Paraguayan Military Forces; and the Torres family.
“General Torres has demonstrated exceptional professionalism, leadership, and commitment to advancing our shared security objectives,” Maj. Reina said. “His efforts have directly enhanced regional stability and strengthened the bond between our armed forces.”
Maj. Reina also highlighted Maj. Gen. Torres’ leadership in the State Partnership Program, a Department of Defense initiative that links U.S. National Guard units with foreign militaries to strengthen security cooperation. In Paraguay’s case, the program pairs the Military Forces with the Massachusetts National Guard.
“He is more than a distinguished officer—he is a trusted ally and a loyal friend to the United States,” Maj. Reina said. “His vision and dedication will continue to elevate our cooperation to new heights.”
In his remarks, Maj. Gen. Torres expressed deep gratitude for the honor.
“Receiving the Legion of Merit is both a privilege and a reflection of the strong relationship between Paraguay and the United States,” Maj. Gen. Torres said. “This recognition belongs not only to me, but to all those who work tirelessly to protect our nations and promote peace in the region.”
