On a day like today but in 1792, Mariano Necochea was born in Buenos Aires, the great South American Marshal who played a fundamental role in the wars of independence in South America, where he demonstrated his bravery and commitment to the cause of freedom.

Son of the Spaniard Don Francisco Casimiro Necochea and Doña María Mercedes Sarasa y Tirado, Mariano was sent to Seville where he received a solid education. In 1809 he returned to Buenos Aires and in 1812 he enlisted as an ensign in the Regiment of Granaderos a Caballo. He took part in the “baptism of fire” of the Horse Grenadiers, the battle of San Lorenzo in February 1813.

Necochea was part of the liberating expedition to Peru, where his courage led him to be promoted to colonel. His participation in the battle of Junín in 1824, where he was seriously wounded, was especially notable since he led a cavalry charge that was decisive for the patriot victory. This triumph consolidated his reputation as a hero of independence.

In addition to his brilliant military career, Mariano Necochea was also a fervent advocate of South American unity, maintaining a close relationship with leaders such as José de San Martín and Simón Bolívar.

In 1834 Mariano Necochea was awarded the title of “Grand Marshal” by the government of Peru in recognition of his leadership, bravery and decisive contributions, especially during the liberation campaign in that country in 1831.

Since the end of 1845, Necochea's ailments, caused by a serious lung disease, as a consequence of the wounds he received in Junín, were permanent. He died on April 5, 1849 in Miraflores, Peru.

It is worth mentioning that the city of Necochea in the province of Buenos Aires bears his name in honor of this outstanding hero of South American independence.