National Guard´s Day
Many countries around the world have their own National Guard Day, and the date on which this holiday is observed in each country is determined by when this component of the armed forces was established there. That’s why National Guard Day is celebrated in Venezuela on August 4th each year.
Venezuela (Observance)That is the date when it was established in 1937. In this country, it’s not a public holiday but is more of a holiday observed by the government and the National Guard. As a result, businesses remain open on this day, and people adhere to their normal work schedules.
The History of National Guard Day in Venezuela
On August 4, 1937, President of the Republic and General-in-Chief Eleazar López Contreras created the Venezuelan National Guard as one of the four components of Venezuela’s Armed Forces. Earlier iterations of this branch of the military date back to the early 19th century and were founded by President José Antonio Páez. However, that early iteration was disbanded, which is why the anniversary of the 1937 founding is used to commemorate this holiday.
Today, Venezuela’s National Guard has the same uniforms and rank insignia as the Venezuelan Army, with a few minor differences. For example, the Venezuelan Army wears black berets, but the National Guard wears maroon ones instead. The motto of this organization is “El Honor es su divisa,” which translates to “Honor is its Emblem” in English.
Observing National Guard Day in Venezuela
As mentioned earlier, this is mainly a holiday observed by the National Guard and select members of the Venezuelan government. It’s not a holiday that the public typically participates in celebrating. For the National Guard, this holiday is usually celebrated with military parades and bands, color displays, and the awarding of medals and commendations to select members of the service.
High-ranking National Guard members and sometimes politicians will give speeches on this day as well. It’s a day for all members of the National Guard to show respect for the organization they serve and to be proud of their service.
Venezuela (Observance)
