Philip VI remembers victims of terrorism on the occasion of the Military Easter

USPA NEWS - The Kings of Spain, Felipe VI and Letizia, presided over this Thursday, the holiday of the Three Kings Day in Spain, the Military Easter. Accompanied by the President of the Government, Pedro Sanchez; the Minister of Defense, Margarita Robles, and other civil and military authorities, the events took place in the Royal Palace of Madrid, in whose courtyard of the Armory the Kings were received with the national anthem. Later, Felipe VI reviewed the troops formed in the place, before going inside the palace, where the monarchs were greeted by the guests at the event.

In the first place, the Minister of Defense, Margarita Robles, spoke, thanking the Armed Forces for the important work they carry out in the fight against the pandemic and on the occasion of the recent eruption of the Cumbre Vieja volcano, on the island of La Palma (archipelago of the Canaries). The minister also recalled the Spanish contribution to international missions and, in this regard, affirmed that "Spain is a country and a serious and reliable ally that fulfills its international commitments and is a benchmark for European security and defense policies." The minister added that “we are an exemplary country: dedicated health workers, a caring and responsible citizenship with vaccines, and the men and women of the Armed Forces. They have been exemplary in this fight against Covid.” Margarita Robles also insisted on the need to modernize the Armed Forces, an objective in which the Government of Spain is already working.

After the Minister of Defense, King Felipe VI wanted to recall in his speech, on the 10th anniversary of “the cessation of the brutal violence of the terrorist gang ETA, with great emotion the memory and dignity of the victims of terrorism. Many of them belonged to the Armed Forces and the Security Forces. We send their families a message of encouragement and admiration. His strength and moral stature serve as a guide for all Spaniards."

In addition, the King highlighted "the pride of Spanish society towards the Military Institution. It is undoubtedly the best reward and implies appreciation and gratitude towards their work and their values. In many situations experienced this year, Spaniards have also felt they again very close, sharing their same efforts, assisting with personnel and means to overcome moments of emergency or great need. I know that they are moved by the honor of serving Spain and our citizens, and that in fulfilling their responsibility they spare no effort or sacrifice." he claimed.

After the King's words, the act concluded with a brief meeting with the authorities and assistants for a few minutes in the Column Hall of the Royal Palace. The celebration of the Military Easter constitutes a solemn military act with which the military year begins. In this act, a balance is made of the vicissitudes of the previous year and the lines of action that will be developed in the following one are marked. In addition, military decorations are imposed on those civilians and members of the Armed Forces who have earned them during the expired year.

The origin of the Military Easter dates back to the reign of Carlos III, when, on January 6, 1782, the Menorcan town of Mahon was recovered, which was in the power of the English. As an expression of joy, Carlos III ordered the viceroys, captains general, governors, and military commanders to gather the garrisons on the feast of the Epiphany and notify the chiefs and officers of the armies of their congratulations on his behalf.