He decorates Juan Miguel Gonzalez, father of Elian Gonzalez, with the "Carlos Manuel de Cespedes" National Order of Merit, one of the highest decorations awarded by the Republic of Cuba, created in honor of president and liberator Carlos Manuel de Cespedes. This reward is given for services rendered to the country to nationals or foreign persons in the exercise of diplomatic or consular duties, special missions, international conferences and congresses and distinguished services to Cuba and humanity.