Colombian soccer star Radamel Falcao received the medal of merit from Colombia’s National Police for his sterling representation of his country’s sport and people, local media reported on Wednesday.
The award is given to “Colombians who have distinguished themselves in Colombia or abroad [who] represent our country with dignity,” noted the Director of National Police, Jose Roberto Leon Riaño.
“I understood that Falcao was a worthy representative of our country abroad and that the National Police should pay homage and give recognition with one of the highest decorations our institution has,” said the National Police Director.
Falcao was “very proud” and wished to “thank God” upon receiving his medal. He went on to thank his family, his Colombian national team and Athletico Madrid who, he noted, allowed him to “grow.”
El Tigre said he was “happy for this wonderful distinction…from the National Police” and reaffirmed that it was his responsibility and the responsibility of other well-known Colombians to “set an example to the younger generations.”
The National Police also paid tribute to Falcao’s grandfather who passed away three days ago for his servies to the force as a sergeant.