Canoas Air Force Hospital has first woman directorCanoas Air Force Hospital has first woman director

Medical Colonel Luciana Horovitz takes over, succeeding Medical Colonel Rodrigo Chaves in a ceremony marked by tributes and milestones

Air Force Agency – HACO, by Private Belmonte

Medical Colonel Luciana Horovitz took over as director of the Canoas Air Force Hospital (HACO) on January 21, becoming the first woman to hold the position in the institution’s 74-year history. She took over from Medical Colonel Rodrigo Moreira Chaves, who had been in charge of the hospital for two years. The handover ceremony took place at the facilities of the Fifth Regional Air Command (V COMAR), in Canoas (RS), and was attended by military and civil authorities. The ceremony was presided over by the Commander of the Air Force, General Marcelo Kanitz Damasceno, who highlighted the importance of the event for the Brazilian Air Force (FAB).

The event began with the unveiling of Colonel Rodrigo’s photograph, now included in the Gallery of Former Commanders, in the HACO Great Hall. The act was a tribute to the work done during his tenure and was honored by the Director of Air Force Health, Medical Major Brigadier Laerte Lobato de Moraes.

In recognition of his work, Colonel Rodrigo received a photobook recording the most memorable moments of his career at the helm of HACO. Colonel Luciana was greeted by the staff, who presented her with flowers as a gesture of welcome and confidence in her new leadership.

During the ceremony, the “Major-Brigadier Ângelo Godinho dos Santos Health Merit Medal” was presented to Medical Major-Brigadier Cloer Véscia Alves, who once headed the HACO, in recognition of his services to the Air Force. Established in December 2023, the commendation honors military personnel and civilians who have distinguished themselves in the Air Force Health System.

In his speech, Colonel Rodrigo expressed his gratitude for his 27 years of service, highlighting the transformations in the medical area and the institution’s infrastructure. He thanked the hospital staff, the V COMAR commanders, the Health Directorate and especially his family for their constant support.

Major Brigadier Laerte congratulated Colonel Rodrigo for his exemplary management, marked by discipline, balance and empathy. He mentioned important achievements, such as supporting Operation Taquari II, obtaining the Seal of Commitment to Hospital Quality, training 150 military personnel and improving the hospital’s infrastructure. The general reaffirmed his confidence in Colonel Luciana and wished her success in her new role.

The change in HACO’s management represents more than a new administrative stage. Under the leadership of Colonel Luciana Horovitz, the commitment to excellence in health care for the military and their dependents remains firm, symbolizing the continuity of a work guided by dedication and the mission to serve the defence of the country.

Photos: V COMAR

By admin