FUENGIROLA
The minesweeper “Tajo” receives its battle ensign in Fuengirola on Saturday
17.10.08 - 12:52 -
TAJO. Tomorrow is the last chance to visit the minesweeper. / F. J.
It was a fitting end to Fuengirola’s feria week and a spectacular way to announce the beginning of Armada Week with visits from ships and crews of the Spanish navy. Some 6,000 or more people packed the Castillo beach last Sunday to watch the aircraft carrier “Príncipe de Asturias” take the lead role in a stimulated hostage rescue. The aircraft carrier, a frigate and three helicopters demonstrated the skill and professionalism needed to ensure the security of personnel in conflict zones.
The audience on the seashore enjoyed a unique experience, complete with a commentary on the history of the ships, never before seen on the Costa del Sol and certainly one very much removed from their daily lives. For many of those present the intensity of the very real demonstration made a lasting impression. Pedro Asensio came with his family from Malaga to see at first hand the work of the Armada and was very impressed by the display. The action took place in “Tauroland” an imaginary land were a group of terrorists were holding various hostages. Two rescue teams arrived by helicopters and attacked the terrorist positions using smoke bombs for cover. They quickly located the hostages and led them to safety.
There then followed a demonstration of aerobatics by a Harrier jet, which left the crowd breathless with admiration. “It is like being in a war film and very close to the action” said Íñigo Montesinos, who had decided to end his week of partying on a high note with a visit to this unique event.
Week of events
However this was just the beginning of a week of events that is proving irresistible to lovers of ships and aircraft. Along with her sister ships, the minesweeper, “Tajo”, whose presence is one of the main reasons for the event, is moored in Fuengirola port. The vessel is open for the public to visit in the afternoons until Friday, with special times set aside in the mornings for school parties.
Local youngsters have had the opportunity to hear talks on the role of the forces in Spain in the Palacio de la Paz and an exhibition about the ships has been open in the Club Náutico. Today, Friday, a naval band takes part in a parade accompanied by a squadron from the “Tajo”. All of these events lead up to the highlight of the week when, tomorrow, Saturday at 12 noon in the marina, the Mayor, Esperanza Oña presides over the presentation to the “Tajo” of its battle ensign.
She described the events of the week as “a unique and patriotic honour for the town”. It has certainly provided the people of Fuengirola with the opportunity to witness a historic event at first hand.
