The delegate of the Government in Cantabria, Eugenia Gómez de Diego, visited today the Naval Command of Santander, where she highlighted the historical role of this institution in the defense and security of national maritime interests throughout its 250 years of history.
After the visit, Gómez de Diego stressed the importance of the anniversary, recalling that on November 14, 1774, the Lieutenant of Navío Pedro de Assas y Venero was appointed by King Carlos III as Captain of Puerto de Santander, giving rise to the presence of the Naval Command in the city. "This institution has been a witness and protagonist of the maritime and port evolution of Cantabria, playing a key role in the security and development of our region," he said.
The delegate also highlighted the deep relationship between Cantabria and Santander with the sea, stressing that "our history and identity are linked to maritime activity, from fishing and trade to naval defense. The Naval Command has been a key player in this link and has accompanied the city and the autonomous community in its evolution over the centuries."
Of special relevance was the explosion of Cabo Machichaco steam in 1893. As Gómez de Diego recalled, that tragedy, which left more than 500 victims between dead and wounded, marked a before and an after in the history of the city. Thus, he had a special memory towards the members of the Command who died in that event, highlighting "the sacrifice of those who gave their lives and the spirit of solidarity that has always characterized Santander and its people".
The visit of the delegate is part of the commemorative events of the 250th anniversary of the Naval Command of Santander, which have included a military act in December, following the protocol of the Navy for this type of celebration. In addition, it has also celebrated the 75th anniversary of the current Command Building, whose construction began in 1947 and began to operate progressively from 1949.
The Naval Commander of Santander, the captain of the ship Jorge Hernández de Armijo, has received the delegate and has reviewed the trajectory of the Naval Command, highlighting its historical work and its current integration into the Maritime Action Force (FAM). This unit of the Fleet is responsible for the protection of national maritime interests and the control of sovereign areas, collaborating closely with other administrative bodies with competence in the maritime field.