Chile celebrates Navy Day
.jpg)
Chilean Defence, Military, Naval and Air Attache Captain Juan Francisco Rojas, sixth from right in front row, poses at a reception organized by the Embassy of Chile to mark the country’s Navy Day at the Army Club at the Ministry of National Defense on May 25. / Courtesy of Embassy of Chile
By Rachel Lee
The Embassy of Chile marked the country’s Navy Day with a reception on May 25 at the Army Club at the Ministry of National Defense.
Chilean Defence, Military, Naval and Air Attache Captain Juan Francisco Rojas said Chile, between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, is a maritime country because the Pacific Ocean does not represent a boundary or barrier.
“For nearly 200 years, the Chilean Navy has contributed directly to the sustained development of the country, safeguarding a common interest of Chilean people and building strong ties of friendship with the majority of countries that have something special in common,” Rojas said.
“Our main hero, Commander Arturo Prat, sacrificed himself for his values on May 21, 1879, during the naval battle of Iquique, leaving an unforgettable example of principles and sacrifice to all Chilean people.”
Rojas also mentioned Korean Admiral Yi Sun-sin among world naval heroes, including Peruvian Admiral Miguel Grau and Admiral Horatio Nelson of the British Navy.
“The Chilean Navy, illuminated by the heritage of our main hero Commander Arturo Prat, represents in the world an active part of the challenges that the future offers to all those countries that are, in one way or another, linked to the sea,” Rojas said. “Chile, symbolized by its friendly people and rich land, invites you to imitate the examples of your own heroes so that we will build a better world of peace and welfare for our people.”