Vila Viçosa received on Saturday, September 12, the 2nd Paratroopers Meeting – Green Berets, an initiative that brings together former paratroopers from different generations with the aim of preserving memory and strengthening bonds of camaraderie among those who served the country. The gathering of participants took place at 9:00 am, at the cemetery of Vila Viçosa, where a tribute was held for all paratroopers and former comrades who have already passed away.
This year's edition featured the participation of 34 paratroopers, a number higher than the previous edition, with particular emphasis on the presence of participants from the marble region. One of the most emotional moments of the morning was the tribute to Hélder Rosado, a paratrooper native to or connected to the region, who died prematurely in November last year.
For Carlos Buinho, a member of the organization, the meeting holds special significance as it brings together different generations around a shared memory. Carlos Lopes, also involved in the organization, highlighted the emotion experienced by participants during the tribute, emphasizing the strong spirit of unity that characterizes the paratrooper community, stating that the departure of one affects all the others.
The president of the Municipal Council of Vila Viçosa, Inácio Esperança, expressed support for holding parachute jumps in future editions and highlighted the strong historical connection between the local population and the paratroopers, stating that many left from Vila Viçosa to various barracks and the paratroopers always had great strength in that land. The organization intends to continue the meeting and grow the initiative, seeking to introduce new activities related to the paratrooper universe, including balloon rides and parachute jumps.
