The Legion and Ronda, United Forever

The Tercio Alejandro Farnesio 4th of the Legion and the city of Ronda are now forever united, if they weren't already. Following the awarding of the city medal to this well-known military unit based in the city of Tajo, during the celebration of the 75th anniversary at the Montejaque camp, the tie featuring the city's coat of arms was added to its war flag. This honor was bestowed by Lieutenant General Carlos Melero, head of the Land Force, in the presence of the city's mayor, María de la Paz Fernández.

The ceremony, which took place in the parade ground of the Ronda base, saw significant attendance from former chiefs of the Ronda barracks including Generals Luis Gómez-Hortigüela, José Manuel Muñoz Muñoz, Miguel Martín Bernardi, Antonio Ruiz Benítez, Luis Lanchares, Julio Salom, Ramón Armada, and José De Meer, as well as Colonel Francisco José Paúl.

After its foundation in Villa Sanjurjo, now the Moroccan city of Alhucemas, the 4th Tercio was reestablished in Ronda in 1981. Since then, the legionnaires have become an essential part of the city, and the bond between them has strengthened over the years.

“We are proud to be from Ronda, the union will be eternal,” stated Colonel Fernando Sánchez, the current head of the unit, after the placement of the tie commemorating the city medal award.

He also recalled the numerous missions carried out in various conflicts such as the Balkans, Iraq, Afghanistan, Lebanon, or Mali, among others. Special mention was made for the legionnaires who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Furthermore, he highlighted the modernization work that has been carried out during this time by the unit, the creation of the Boel, or the arrival of the 'Reyes Católicos' light cavalry group.

Attendees at this event also had the opportunity to witness the parade of the units that participated in the military parade.