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Venezuelans exhibited varying degrees of sadness as they assembled at Caracas' 4F (February 4th) headquarters earlier today. The location was where Lt. Col. Army Hugo Chavez commandeered a failed coup attempt against then President Carlos Andres Perez. The insurrection was called the Ezequiel Zamora Operation.
RELATED: Zamora Laid Groundwork for Venezuela's Bolivarian Revolution
United Socialist Party of Venezuela Vice-President Diosdado Cabello was at the military procession. To an audience of close to 500 soldiers, he reiterated that all must be ready to defend the country.
Diosdado Cabello: "In whatever circumstance, stand up for Venezuela. Each of you. If we are united, nothing and no one can divide us."
Exactly 25 years ago, the Revolutionary Bolivarian Movement 200 was headed by then Lt. Col. Army Hugo Chavez. It was a military uprising with the goal of rescuing the "dignity" of the country against capitalist measures implemented under President Carlos Andres Perez, which had resulted in millions falling into poverty.
According to Chavez, the actions of Feb. 4, 1992 were the result of citizens frustrated with an administration immersed in corruption and seemingly-committed to multinational oil companies. Chavez's mission was to return power to the People.
"I was part of that fight. I marched in Tachira in support of the Commandante. I will also continue to support Chavez's work. And, I will always appear in the streets for the fight for peace." - Gabriel Perez, 51 | teleSUR
For months leading up to Chavez's Feb. 4th coup attempt, which eventually failed to seize power, there had been rumors of military unrest. Millions were unhappy with the direction the government had taken. Even many who had voted the Perez government into power were desperate for social change. In the years that would follow, Hugo Chavez would answer that call.
An emotional General Chorio explains the significance of Chavez's contribution: "This is a day of hope. It is proof that the hand of the People is strongest. We walk in unison with Che Guevara and Fidel Castro. This day promises a space for all Venezuelans. Everyone has a voice. We move forward with socialism."
Citizens from across the country lined up to enter the 4F headquarters today, to get a glimpse of the coffin of Hugo Chavez and give their signature as a promise to continue his work.
"I signed to be one with Chavez. He wanted us to continue pushing for liberty and dignity." - Gabriel Perez, 51
When the military procession came to an end, generals, officials and citizens entered the room in which Chavez's remains are kept. They sang, prayed and exchanged hugs. It was an emotional dedication to a leader who had impacted their lives like none before.
Officials and civilians honour Hugo Chavez's remains, which are flanked by four soldiers. | teleSUR
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