Army Day in Nicaragua
The Republic of Nicaragua is the largest country in the Central American isthmus and is bordered by Costa Rica to the south, Honduras to the northwest, and the Pacific Ocean to the southwest. This is a country that covers over 130,000+ square kilometers and is home to approximately 6.4 million people.
It’s also a country that takes pride in its armed forces, as evidenced by them not only celebrating Armed Forces Day in May of each year but also celebrating Army Day every year on the 2nd of September. The latter holiday celebrates the country’s creation of the Nicaraguan Army on September 2, 1979.
The History Of Army Day In Nicaragua
The reason why Nicaragua has both an Armed Forces Day and an Army Day is that these two holidays commemorate two different events. The former commemorates the date when Nicaragua became an independent country, and a National Guard was created to protect the country.
However, the country wouldn’t get a professional army until September 2nd, 1979. This is when the Sandinistas established a new national army that was aptly named the Sandinista Popular Army. In 1995, this is why Army Day celebrates that date every year. In 1995, the National Army of Nicaragua would become more of a conventional Central American military force than it had previously been.
Observing Army Day In Nicaragua
This is not a public holiday for the general public. That means that businesses, schools, and government offices operate according to their normal schedules. In fact, this holiday isn’t much observed by the local population either.
It’s mainly a holiday that’s celebrated within the Nicaraguan Army itself. This is a day the army used for giving out special honors and recognizing the force’s birthday. Some high officials may also throw parties or other special events on this holiday.