BDF Captain Honored for Service in Haiti Security Mission

Captain Claudio Quiroz of the Belize Defence Force was formally recognized this week for service in Haiti, highlighting the contribution of Belizean troops to international peacekeeping efforts.  Quiroz was recently presented with a Mission Medal for service in the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti. The award was presented by the Commander of the BDF, Brigadier General Anthony Velasquez, during a ceremony.  In reflecting on the moment, Quiroz noted that recognition for the “hard and often times dangerous work” carried out by soldiers is not always forthcoming, making the honour especially meaningful. The soldier expressed gratitude for the opportunity to have served in Haiti, describing it as a privilege.  The MSS Mission in Haiti was launched to assist in stabilizing the country amid ongoing civil unrest and widespread gang violence. Belize joined other international partners in supporting security operations on the ground.  Back in April of 2025, Ermil Coh and Claudio Quiroz returned home after nearly seven months on deployment. The two officers were part of a Belizean contingent that worked alongside troops from multiple nations, contributing to coordinated peacekeeping and security efforts.