- The Washington Times - Thursday, March 7, 2013

Venezuela President Hugo Chavez’s final words to his nearby general were whispered pleas to stay alive, the head of the presidential security force said Wednesday.

“He couldn’t speak, but he said it with his lips. … ’I don’t want to die. Please don’t let me die,’ because he loved his country, he sacrificed himself for his country,” Gen. Jose Ornella told The Associated Press.

Mr. Ornella also said Mr. Chavez, who had battled cancer for months, ultimately died of a massive heart attack, AP says.

Mr. Ornella said he was with Mr. Chavez for the past two years and that the cancer had reached very advanced stages when he finally died, AP says.

• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.

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