A national exaltation event
The parade for Armed Forces Day took place in the city of Oviedo, with the presence of Kings Felipe VI and Letizia in the box of honor. This event has always been an occasion to exalt the patriotic spirit and show national pride. However, this sentiment has also been the subject of criticism and caricature.
For the most enthusiastic fans, witnessing this parade is like a child’s first visit to Eurodisney, being amazed by their favorite characters. It is a show full of tenderness. Although in this case, the characters are soldiers dressed in uniforms and armed, which can be a little intimidating for the little ones. But it’s all in the name of the country, of course.
Baraka’s prominence
In this military parade, we cannot fail to mention Baraka, a magnificent specimen of sheep that became the protagonist of the event. Although the species of goat has been mistakenly attributed to him, he is actually a ram of the species Ovis orientalis aries. To give it a special touch, they have placed golden horns on it, giving it the appearance of a goat. The Legion has used different animals as emblems throughout its history, but the goat is the most recognized and popular symbol.
Baraka, trained under the strictest military discipline, walks with a firm and light step, like a good soldier. Although he is not aware that he has become the star of the parade, since his daily routine consists of grazing and ruminating without worrying about fame. However, this year he has been overshadowed by the legionnaire in charge of taking him from one place to another, due to a video that has gone viral on social networks.
Reactions on social networks
The video of the parade has generated a large number of reactions on social networks. Some users have expressed their discontent with the event, calling it embarrassing, sexist, anachronistic and other derogatory terms. Others have questioned the need to paint the ram’s horns with glitter. Despite the criticism, there have also been those who have defended the parade and have highlighted its importance for the country’s culture and tradition.
In short, the parade for Armed Forces Day in Oviedo is an event that generates mixed opinions. While some see it as a display of national exaltation and a tribute to the Armed Forces, others consider it an anachronistic and questionable spectacle. Whatever the opinion, this parade continues to be a tradition rooted in Spanish society.
