In their messages, read during a gala on Monday evening at the Universal Hall of the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces in Havana, Gerardo Hernandez, Fernando Gonzalez, Antonio Guerrero, Rene Gonzalez and Ramon Labañino —internationally known as the Cuban Five— express their admiration and respect for women and their contribution to the Revolution.

“To think of you, to admire you and to love you, makes us stronger and confident of victory,” one of the messages reads.

“Receive our eternal gratitude for all the support you give us,” it adds.

The Cuban Five were arrested and given harsh and unjust sentences for monitoring anti-Cuba extremist organizations in South Florida that were planning and carrying out terrorist attacks against the island.