SAIC Anthony Chapa becomes First American to Receive Colombian Congressional Award
April 18, 2005, SAIC Anthony Chapa becomes the first American Citizen to receive the Colombian Congress' Simon Bolivar Order of Democracy.
This prestigious decoration is awarded to individuals who have greatly contributed to the furtherance of Democracy and Liberty in the nation of Colombia and has, heretofore, only been awarded to Colombian citizens.
SAIC Chapa, while serving as Resident Agent in Charge of the Bogota RO, was recognized for his efforts in drafting and passing legislation towards the strengthening of anti-counterfeiting laws in Colombia.
His efforts, recognized by Congress, brought a heightened sense of awareness to the Colombian government to the effects of counterfeiting and the need for more stringent penalties in its deterrence.