PARATROOPERS of ECUADOR

Because of its tactical and strategic maneuverability, the Brigade of Infantry Parachutists is considered essential to the Army of Ecuador. Training specialties include basic static-line and free fall courses as well as advanced training as jump masters and arial resupply.

Specialized training in the function of Commandos, Mountain Warfare, Snipers Ops, and Patrolling are also conducted.

Historically, the paratroopers have played a major role in the country's politics. During a presidential visit to the Taura Air Base outside Guayaquil in January 1987, paratroop commandos loyal to the dismissed the armed forces chief of staff, Air Force Lieutenant General Frank Vargas and abducted President Febres Cordero and his defense minister. They were released eleven hours later after Febres Cordero personally granted amnesty to Vargas and signed a written guarantee that no reprisals would be taken against either the rebellious former general or his commandos. A few days later, however, the army arrested the ninety- four paratroopers, who were then expelled from the air force. A military tribunal sentenced fifty-eight of them to prison sentences ranging from six months to sixteen years.

Click here to visit paratroopers of the Army of Ecuador official web site.

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