Historical Review and Recognitions at the Embassy of the Republic of Colombia in Canada

Photo from left to right: Col Lucero, 2Lt Vargas, Ambassador of Colombia Arturo Morales, Major Parra, Capt Garcia-Salas, and Private Alzate.

By Capt Rey Garcia-Salas

On March 7, 2025, the Embassy of the Republic of Colombia in Canada hosted a solemn and significant ceremony to honor the historical contributions of Colombian citizens to the Canadian Armed Forces. This distinguished event was attended by Ambassador Carlos Arturo Morales, Colonel Mauricio Alejandro Lucero (Military, Naval, and Air Attaché), and Captain Rey García Salas (liaison officer of the Canadian Armed Forces and member of the Latin American Soldiers Committee in Canada). Also present were reserve officers Major José Luis Parra and Second Lieutenant Juan Camilo Vargas.

The ceremony featured the formal delivery of a historical review detailing the names and initial research on Colombian citizens who enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces during First and Second World Wars, relying on their own resources. This extensive research, spearheaded by Captain García-Salas with the support of Giuseppe Marconi, Nick McCarthy, and historian Steven Dieter, sheds light on the invaluable contributions of these Colombian heroes. Their service reinforces the deep and enduring connection between Colombia and Canada. This research is the result of nine years of dedicated work by Captain García-Salas, who continues his efforts to honor and respect the Latin Americans who voluntarily came to Canada, self-financed their journey, and joined the Canadian Armed Forces to fight in both World Wars.

A particularly moving moment of the ceremony was the presentation of the Canada-Colombia Friendship Pin to Private Cristhian Alzate Marín, a proud member of the Canadian Armed Forces of Colombian descent. Ambassador Morales bestowed this honor, symbolizing the shared heritage and strong ties between both nations.

Further, the coats of arms of the Presidential Guard Battalion reserve officers were presented to the Ambassador in gratitude for his ongoing support of Colombians in the region. Special recognition was also given to Major José Luis Parra, coordinator of the reserve officers abroad, for his steadfast commitment to advocating for Colombian soldiers.

Some Reflections

Ingrid Cabezas, spouse of Giuseppe Marconi

On Giuseppe’s involvement in the Latin American Soldiers Committee:

“For years, I have witnessed Giuseppe’s dedication to uncovering the history of Latinos in Canada. So it was no surprise when he decided to support Captain García-Salas as a member of the Latin American Soldiers Committee. His creativity and passion for bringing these stories to light have exceeded even his own expectations.

Seeing him happy, engaged, and giving a voice to those who served in the Canadian Armed Forces fills me with pride. I know that he always gives his best in everything he undertakes, and this cause is no exception.

” On learning about Colombian ancestors in the Canadian Armed Forces:

“It was a revelation. Many of us were unaware that, during these historical conflicts, individuals volunteered not only for their own families but also for Canada. Their dedication is truly admirable.

I deeply value the effort to rescue these stories, which had long remained in obscurity. Our past must be told; otherwise, we risk losing it. That is why the work of the Latin American Soldiers Committee is not only relevant but essential.

” Born in Colombia, Ingrid Cabezas brings a personal connection to this historical research. Her insights highlight the importance of preserving the legacy of Colombian volunteers in Canada’s military history.

Private Cristhian Alzate Marín

On serving in the Canadian Armed Forces as a Colombian: “I am very proud. Canada welcomed my family with open arms and gave us a future. I feel grateful and honored to serve as a Colombian in the Canadian Armed Forces.

” On discovering the history of Colombian volunteers in the World Wars: “This is a history that needs to be shared more widely. Many names were forgotten, but slowly, we are recovering the identities of those who served.”

Latin American Soldiers in Canada: A Legacy of Service

The research presented at the event highlights the remarkable stories of Colombian volunteers in the Canadian Armed Forces during both World Wars. Among them:

First World War Contributions

One notable Colombian volunteer was Sapper Peter Puyo, born in Bogotá on June 29, 1899. He enlisted in the Canadian Engineers on July 2, 1918, in Toronto. An auto mechanic by trade, Puyo used his skills to support the war effort. His mother, Mrs. Mary Puyo, remained in Bogotá. Puyo served in England and was later demobilized in Toronto on October 10, 1919.

Puyo was part of the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF), which played a vital role in key battles such as Vimy Ridge and Passchendaele. The CEF, composed of over 630,000 Canadian soldiers, was integral to the Allied war effort, with engineers like Puyo providing crucial support in logistics and infrastructure.

Second World War Contributions

Another remarkable figure was Rifleman James Clinton Wheeler, born in Barrancabermeja, Colombia, in 1923. After moving to Toronto, Wheeler attended McGill University before enlisting in the Canadian Army in 1943. He was assigned to The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada, one of Canada’s most prestigious regiments.

Wheeler participated in Operation Blockbuster, a critical phase of Operation Veritable in 1945. Tragically, he was killed in action on February 26, 1945, and was later laid to rest in the Nijmegen Canadian Military Cemetery in the Netherlands.

Honoring a Shared History

The contributions of Colombian volunteers to the Canadian Armed Forces serve as a testament to the values of bravery, commitment, and international solidarity. Though their numbers were small, their impact was profound. The legacy of figures like Peter Puyo and James Clinton Wheeler exemplifies the collaboration between Latin America and Canada in the pursuit of
global peace.
This ceremony at the Colombian Embassy in Canada underscored the importance of recognizing and preserving these historical narratives. By bringing these stories to light, we not only honor the sacrifices of the past but also inspire future generations to appreciate and uphold the enduring friendship between Colombia and Canada.

Acknowledgment: Special thanks to historian Steven Dieter and Nick McCarthy for his invaluable support in this research.
The Latin American Soldiers in Canada Committee remains committed to uncovering and sharing the stories of Canadian-Latinos who have proudly served in the Canadian Armed Forces.