A Cuban Armed Forces (FAR) official died after being hospitalized for several days following a traffic accident in Santiago de Cuba, according to official sources.
The highest-ranked Yorlai Tito Rengifo, assigned to the Tank Division, was injured in a traffic accident that occurred on an unspecified date, due to which he received medical attention at the Naval Hospital, where he later died, clarified the military entity in a Facebook post.
In an obituary published this Sunday, the Tank Division praised the military career of Tito Rengifo, whom they described as a "hero," noting that his "life was an example of dedication, sacrifice, discipline, loyalty, and unconditional love for the Homeland."
The text spared no praise for the FAR officer, highlighting that "from his early days in the institution, he demonstrated a discipline and passion that set him apart, always ready to face any challenge with determination and honor."
The Tank Division expressed its sorrow over the untimely death of the soldier, whom they regarded as an example of a "man, father, husband, son, and friend," who "never hesitated to give himself completely, with a clean conscience and a sincere smile that spoke of courage and love for the cause he defended."
The obituary praised the services that Tito Rengifo provided to the Cuban army and his defense of the revolution.
The posts on the social network were accompanied by photos and a video of the funeral honors for the officer, who was bid farewell with the appropriate military honors, including volley fire at the cemetery. After the solemn ceremony, the family played music in memory of Tito Rengifo.
The Tank Division did not explain the circumstances surrounding the traffic accident that caused the death of the major of the FAR, however, in a pinned comment on the posts, it emphasized that it was "clarifying doubts" and urged "the counter-revolution" to "show solidarity with the family, friends, and colleagues."
In response to the provocative message, a user expressed indignation, stating that "the Tank Division is an explosion for young Cubans" and "there is a lot of risk within it." He also urged parents to look after their children when they are recruited to fulfill the mandatory Military Service in the tank units.
Upon the death of the Cuban military figure, former spy Gerardo Hernández also reacted on his social media, stating: “The great family of tanks is in mourning. Major Yorlai Tito Rengifo has left us too soon. Our condolences to his family and comrades.”
In a tragic accident that occurred last July, the driver of a military jeep lost control and collided with a taxi on the 8 Vías, at the entrance of Havana. As a result of the collision, an foreign tourist and two young men fulfilling their Military Service lost their lives. There has been no official statement from the authorities regarding this incident.
A FAR truck was involved in another accident in Santiago de Cuba, crashing into the entrance of a house in the Mariana de la Torre neighborhood. No casualties were reported. According to sources, the military vehicle was on an emergency mission, presumably transporting an injured soldier to the Joaquín Castillo Duany Military Hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions about Traffic Accidents and Military Service in Cuba
What happened to the FAR officer Yorlai Tito Rengifo in Santiago de Cuba?
Major Yorlai Tito Rengifo, an officer of the FAR, passed away after a traffic accident in Santiago de Cuba. The accident occurred on an unspecified date, and despite receiving medical attention at the Naval Hospital, he did not survive. His death was followed by funeral honors with military honors.
How has the community reacted to the accident involving the major of the FAR?
The Tank Division, where Tito Rengifo served, published an obituary highlighting his career and dedication. The military community and figures such as former spy Gerardo Hernández mourned his passing, expressing condolences to his family. Additionally, the note urged the "counter-revolution" to show solidarity with the officer's loved ones.
What is the situation of Military Service in Cuba and its relation to recent accidents?
The Military Service -mandatory in Cuba- has been criticized for the conditions in which recruits operate. In the context of the death of Major Tito Rengifo, concerns have been raised about the dangers faced by young recruits, especially in tank units. Moreover, several tragic accidents have occurred, such as the death of two young recruits in a crash in Havana, raising worries about safety and the handling of military vehicles.
What other recent incidents have involved military vehicles in Cuba?
In addition to the accident that resulted in the death of Major Tito Rengifo, there have been other incidents involving military vehicles in Cuba. For example, a FAR truck crashed into the entrance of a house in Santiago de Cuba without causing any casualties. Additionally, a military jeep lost control in Havana, resulting in the death of a tourist and two young men from the Military Service. These events highlight concerns about road safety and the use of military vehicles in the country.
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