Being rather laser-focused on Commodore Anson’s expedition, meant we were caught quite unawares about the significance of Port San Julian during the Falklands war. In fact, the airport at Port San Julian saw as many as 12 sorties flown each day during the height of the conflict, and for such a small town its impact is still felt. 2022 represents the 40-year anniversary of the Falklands conflict, with the Argentine invasion commencing on April 2nd, 1982. The war lasted 74 days, and was a disaster for the military junta (Galthieri) which was in power at the time.
The picture above shows a French Mirage “Dagger” aircraft which was flown by the Argentine airforce, and sits prominently outside the hotel where we had lunch during our visit, as well as the memorial to those soldiers who died in the conflict. No less than 9 pilots died who were based out of Port San Julian. The blue sign stands at the airport, to remind all travellers about the airport’s significance.
Perhaps its not felt equally across Argentina, but for such a small town as Port San Julian the Falklands conflict still has painful memories.