Today is a new anniversary of the Ayacucho Squadron, one of the units of the Horse Grenadier Regiment created by General José de San Martín, named after the decisive Battle of Ayacucho, fought 200 years ago, on December 9, 1824. This battle, considered the last and most significant in the struggle for the independence of South America, is an emblem of freedom and glory for the nations that made up the independence coalition. In that historic confrontation, 80 brave grenadiers under the command of Colonel Felix Bogado heroically participated, perpetuating the Sanmartinian legacy that still distinguishes this squadron today.
With its historical uniform, the Ayacucho Squadron wears on its left sleeve the coat of arms granted by the Government of Colombia, a symbol of the recognition of the glorious actions of Junín and Ayacucho.
In 1907, by order of the then President Figueroa Alcorta, the Grenadiers were designated as the Presidential Escort Regiment of the Argentine Republic, a function they still perform today.
The Ayacucho Squadron honors the memory of the heroes of the independence through essential functions for the ceremonial and national security, such as:
- Escort and security of the President of the Nation in the Government House.
- Custody of the remains of General Don José de San Martín, in the mausoleum of the Metropolitan Cathedral.
- Raising and lowering of the National Flag in the Plaza de Mayo.
- Participation in protocol acts at the Government House and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
The Ayacucho Squadron, as part of the Horse Grenadier Regiment, not only evokes the heroic deeds that forged our independence, but also reflects the unwavering spirit of those who fought for the freedom of our homeland.
Today, as yesterday, the Ayacucho Squadron stands firm in its mission, preserving the history and symbols that unite us as Argentines. Their example inspires new generations to proudly defend the values of freedom, justice and union bequeathed to us by the heroes of Ayacucho. Eternal honor and glory to the Grenadiers and the Ayacucho Squadron, guardians of our identity and custodians of our history!
