The Argentine Ministry of Defense published a heartfelt message on its official Twitter account on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, commemorating the 51st anniversary of the death of Colonel Argentino del Valle Larrabure. The post, shared at 8:26 PM, reads: “51 years after his death, we remember Colonel Argentino del Valle Larrabure, kidnapped and murdered by the ERP during a democratic government. He was a victim of the terrorism that struck Argentina in those years and spent 372 days in captivity, subjected to torture and harsh conditions.”
Who Was Colonel Larrabure?
Born in 1922, Argentino del Valle Larrabure was a career military officer. In 1974, while serving as director of the military factory in Villa María, Córdoba, he was abducted by the Ejército Revolucionario del Pueblo (ERP) — a Marxist-Leninist guerrilla organization that operated in Argentina during the 1970s.
For 372 days, he remained in captivity under inhumane conditions, according to historical testimonies. His body was found in August 1975 during a security forces operation. His death became a symbol of the political violence that plagued the country during that decade.
Historical Context
The kidnapping occurred during the constitutional government of María Estela Martínez de Perón, a period marked by escalating political violence. The ERP, the armed wing of the Revolutionary Workers' Party (PRT), carried out numerous attacks and kidnappings for political and economic purposes.
Larrabure's case was later investigated in trials for crimes against humanity. In 2015, Argentine courts convicted several former ERP members for his kidnapping and murder, marking a significant step in the pursuit of justice.
A Tribute That Sparks Reflection
The Ministry of Defense's message, part of a broader policy of memory and recognition of terrorism victims, aims to keep alive the history of those who suffered political violence. The publication triggered a wave of reactions on social media, with users praising the colonel's bravery and questioning narratives that attempt to equate the armed forces with guerrilla groups.
This date also coincides with National Hero Day in some unofficial calendars. The tribute adds to previous commemorations, such as naming streets and public spaces after Larrabure in various provinces.
Key Facts of the Case
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Argentino del Valle Larrabure |
| Birth Year | 1922 |
| Kidnapping | 1974, Villa María, Córdoba |
| Days in Captivity | 372 |
| Date of Death | August 1975 |
| Responsible Group | ERP (Ejército Revolucionario del Pueblo) |
| Government at the Time | María Estela Martínez de Perón (democratic) |
This commemoration not only remembers a military officer but also brings to the forefront the debate on Argentina's historical memory and the need to honor all victims of political violence, without distinction.