In Ceuta, an unexpected scene unfolded: the farewell to Legion Captain Álvaro García became an event that shook not only the military but the entire city. The young officer, recently returned from Iraq, died in a train disaster in Adamuz, leaving behind not only memories but many unanswered questions. Representatives of the authorities, military officials, and ordinary citizens gathered at the García Aldave barracks to bid him a final farewell. The atmosphere was tense: the national anthem, the legendary Legion song, and the presentation of the flag to his family—all accompanied by tears and a solemn silence.
His fellow officers carried the officer’s coffin by hand, while the hall was enveloped in silence, broken only by the sounds of military songs. The García family received not only the flag but also the iconic Legion headgear—the chapiri, now a symbol of remembrance. Among those present were some of the most prominent figures in Ceuta: the President of the autonomous city, Juan Vivas, government delegate Cristina Pérez, garrison commander Luis Jesús Fernández, and many officers. None of them hid their emotions; some even failed to hold back tears.
The Final Farewell
The entire farewell ceremony took place in the Prince’s Hall (Salón del Príncipe) of the barracks where the deceased captain served. The chapel was also set up here, drawing not only military personnel but also local residents. People came with their families to show support to the García family and pay tribute to a man known for his remarkable generosity and cheerful spirit. His commander, Lieutenant Colonel Javier Veiga, admitted that the loss was a real blow for the unit. According to him, Álvaro was more than just an officer — he was someone who knew how to inspire and support those around him.
On the day of the tragedy, as soon as the news of the captain’s death broke, several of his colleagues immediately traveled to Córdoba to be with his parents and help them through those first difficult hours. Veiga confessed that these days had been a real test for the entire team: “We tried to stay close by, to support and help in everything that was needed.”
A shock for the Legion
The death of Álvaro García came as an unexpected blow to the entire Legion. The young officer had only just returned from a deployment to Iraq, where he handled challenging assignments. On that fateful day, he was traveling on the Iryo train with a military nurse from Ronda (Malaga), who is now in intensive care. This tragedy not only shook his fellow soldiers but also sparked a wave of sympathy among the residents of Ceuta. Many noted that such events rarely occur, which is why the farewell to the captain became a citywide occasion.
At the Garcia Aldave barracks, the doors were open to anyone wishing to say goodbye to the officer. People lined up to approach the coffin, lay flowers, and offer condolences to the family. Among the visitors were not only military personnel but also ordinary residents who had never met Álvaro in person, yet felt it their duty to support his loved ones.
City in mourning
Conversations about the tragedy continue in Ceuta. Many discuss the details of the incident, recalling what the late captain was like. His colleagues describe him as someone always ready to help, whose smile lifted everyone around him. The city still finds it hard to believe that such a young and promising officer died so suddenly.
Álvaro Garcia’s funeral became not just a military ceremony but a true citywide event. Authorities, military personnel, and civilians came together to support the family and honor the memory of a man who became a symbol of courage and devotion. In the Prince’s Hall, words of support never ceased, while on the streets of Ceuta people discuss how the tragedy will affect both the Legion and the city itself.
Unexpected details
Few knew that on the day of bidding farewell to the captain, the atmosphere in the barracks was extraordinary: many officers openly showed their emotions in public for the first time in a long while. Some admitted that losing Álvaro was a personal tragedy for them. On this day, even the strictest officers did not hide their tears, and words of support came not only from commanders but also from ordinary citizens.
Ceuta continues to debate what caused the tragedy and how life in the Legion will change from now on. The city will long remember the day when the farewell to one man brought everyone together, from the top officials to ordinary citizens.
