Operation 'Market Garden'

OVER the last few years the cooperation and close ties between members of the ex-Forces Associations in Spain have grown ever stronger.

Each Spring, high ranking officers from the Spanish Military and Government officials have made the trip to Torrevieja for Remembrance Days and other occasions and this year, British groups have been invited to Murcia City to be part of the action for the historical re-enactment association Codex Belix (www.codexbelix.uphero.com) in Murcia, which will take place on October 14 – 16.

The event consists of a re-enactment of several eras of Marcia’s military history, from Greece to the 21^st century, as a tribute to those European and Spanish soldiers who gave their lives for their fatherlands, known as ‘Living History.’

The event features an exhibition of old military vehicles from 1930 to 1940, with replicas and original uniforms, more than 400 actors and 30 military vehicles, plus over 20 hours of educational and cultural activities on Saturday and Sunday.

There will be a Theme Park from different historical eras, where the public can participate in various activities, a simulation of famous historic battles (“Market Garden”), represented by “actors” in uniform and with the use of special effects, a convoy of historic vehicles along a route within the city, filming of the event by an independent film producer, plus the presence of the Spanish armed forces, personnel, weapons, vehicles and information offices.

Thanks mainly to the groups involved with ‘Marbella – 2008’ and ‘Murcia – 2010’ the Codex Belix Association has raised its prestige in the Spanish civil and military institutions, as can confirmed the presence of Spanish Army armoured vehicles, combat troops with equipment plus a few surprises that cannot be described, other than being spectacular.

They also have the collaboration and presence of the Guardia Civil, Local Police and Civil Protection to escort the convoy routes of vintage vehicles in the city, with more than 30 vehicles confirmed so far.

Three full days of colourful military re-enactments are certainly something not to be missed. Entrance is free for the majority of the events, especially the parades through the streets. Just be aware to leave yourself plenty of time for parking.

Phone 647507165 – email lecimbel@yahoo.es

By Keith Nicol