Troops from Ronda’s Legion barracks at La Indiana will soon deploy to Afghanistan and replace existing troops as well as contribute to Spain’s commitment to US President Barrack Obama’s troop surge announced late last year.
The third regiment “Alejandro Farnesio”, a light infantry regiment known for their professionalism and vigor are considered part of Spain’s special forces and are based in Ronda, with many young Rondeños forming part of the regiment.
Troops assigned to Afghanistan will be part of a designation Asfora 25 which also includes small numbers of troops from other military units though the bulk of Asfora 25 will comprise soldiers from Ronda’s barracks.
In Ronda we often see the boys in green wandering around with their loved ones, and on Saturday a particularly large group with their wives and girlfriends could be seen enjoying coffee or a last stroll through La Bola before reporting back on duty this morning.
Spain’s contingent in Afghanistan are part of the UN authorised ISAF Regional Command West, based in Herat in western Afghanstan. Spanish fatalities from operations in Afghanistan to date number 89, including 62 deaths when a returning plane crashed killing 62, and another 17 killed when their helicopter crashed.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!