Armed Forces Day in Honduras – October 21, 2022
Armed Forces Day in Honduras takes place every year on October 21. It’s a date set to reflect on the importance of the country’s military forces, first established in 1825. Throughout the 1900s, the Honduran army was heavily involved in political life,
as military leaders commonly became high chiefs of state and even presidents, whether through elections or coups. After the 1982 constitution was signed and Honduras first saw a period of uninterrupted democratic governments for over 20 years, the role of the armed forces changed slightly. However, they still wield significant political power. Join us as we review their history, importance, and impact.
HISTORY OF ARMED FORCES DAY IN HONDURAS
The Honduran Armed Forces are divided into three branches: the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force. The estimated number of current personnel is over 50,000, and it is not uncommon to see them patrolling the streets along with the police to enforce the law and prevent crime.
In fact, Honduras had the strongest military budget of any Central American country in 2012. Armed Forces Day in Honduras is a national holiday widely observed throughout the country. The majority of the festivities take place in Tegucigalpa, the capital city. A military parade and solemn official ceremonies are among them.
Many other countries have public holidays to honor their armed forces and the critical role they play in keeping the country safe. Honduras’ army has a history of, every now and then, implementing new strategies for safeguarding the nation, having been involved in several coups. One such intervention occurred in 1956 when the Honduran army acted solely for the benefit of the country rather than as a tool of the government:
Back then, Julio Lozano Díaz was Honduras’ vice president from 1949 to 1954, the right hand of president Juan Manuel Gálvez, who experienced health issues during his time in office. While president Gálvez was away seeking medical treatment, Lozano assumed the position, refusing to leave after the people elected Ramón Villeda Morales in 1954.
He then declared himself chief of state in December and acted as such until 1956, when the military forced Lozano to resign. Later on, after a general election, Morales assumed the presidency. This has been passed down in history as one of the many successful interventions by the Honduran army.
ARMED FORCES DAY IN HONDURAS TIMELINE
1825
Honduras’ Army is First Established
The country’s Military Forces are established by Article 44, Subset four of the First Legislative Chamber Constitution.
1831
The First Military Academy
The original Military School is established in the San Francisco Barracks.
1881
Honduras’ First Military Code
On January 1, the Honduran army issues its first Military Code, a legal document to control its very own establishment.
1999
A Constitutional Amendment
The position of military Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces is abolished in January, putting civilian authority over the military.
HOW TO OBSERVE ARMED FORCES DAY IN HONDURAS
Learn more about Honduras’s armed conflicts
A few acclaimed books have recently been published which delve into the more overlooked, detailed aspects of Honduras’ political conflicts. “The Long Honduran Night” is one such book you can read to learn more.
Play Honduran music
Listening to music from another country is a great way to enjoy foreign festivities. You can celebrate by listening to your favorite Honduran tunes.
Go to a military parade
If you happen to be in Honduras on Armed Forces Day, you can attend parades and other patriotic events, which can be fascinating for someone from another country. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with locals and try new foods and experiences.
5 INCREDIBLE FACTS ABOUT HONDURAS
The birds
Honduras is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 700 different species.
The Banana Republic
Back in the day, Honduras received such a nickname for its reliance on banana exports and unstable economy.
Bat kingdom
The country is home to more than 60 species of bats.
No-smoking zones
Honduras is also the first country to outlaw smoking in homes.
Ancient religious buildings
The Comayagua Cathedral was built in 1634 and is one of Central America’s oldest cathedrals.
WHY ARMED FORCES DAY IN HONDURAS IS IMPORTANT
It is all about Honduran independence
Honduras might not have gained political independence at all if it hadn’t been for the military rising. As a result, the country has been able to live as a democratic nation, free of external control. The ability to rule, make laws and decisions, and function independently of other countries is worth fighting for.
It’s all about being thankful
It is a time for the people of Honduras to feel grateful and honor those who have paid the price for freedom. Independence is still a fundamental concept for both people and the country as a whole.
It honors soldiers
Being in the military is tough. Armed Forces Day honors and recognizes those who serve in the country’s armed forces.
