36 Years Later: Panama Remembers the US Invasion

Fortunately, in 2025, his remains were identified by forensic experts and handed over by the Public Ministry to his relatives. The invasion of Panama is a traumatic event that demands constant and responsible reflection. The military action carried out by the United States, called 'Operation Just Cause,' not only caused the downfall of Manuel Antonio Noriega's government but also resulted in the loss of many lives, the devastation of various communities, and a great impact on the country's sovereignty. 36 years after that event, Panama still faces the challenge of commemorating, reflecting, and claiming historical justice regarding the invasion. The military intervention was justified by reasons that included the 'defense of democracy,' the safeguarding of American citizens, and the fight against drug trafficking. Half of all these interventions were carried out from 1950 onwards, and more than a quarter occurred after the so-called Cold War ended, justifying the fight against drug trafficking and the security of the interoceanic canal. However, for most Panamanians, the invasion was not an act of liberation, but a military action to destroy the Panamanian Defense Forces to arrest the 'strongman,' who had collaborated with Washington. The commemoration of the 36th anniversary of the US invasion should not be restricted to suffering alone. Only through memory and historical consciousness can a more just and dignified future be built for Panama. The Panamanian government must bear in mind that Panamanian nationalism was the engine that allowed a small nation to demand respect and equal conditions in dialogue with the world's greatest power, in pursuit of the recovery of sovereignty over the entire national territory. These events are still carried in the memory of Panamanians who lived through these events, which should never be forgotten by humanity. According to confirmed data, throughout its history, the United States has participated in hundreds of invasions in foreign countries, summing up almost 400 military interventions from 1776 to 2023. It is necessary to include in this task a commitment to historical truth. Over the years, the victims have demanded recognition, justice, and reparation. 'US soldiers collecting corpses.' By Raquel E. Rodriguez. December 20, 1989, is remembered as one of the saddest moments in Panama's recent history. The old buildings were severely affected, leaving thousands of people homeless and numerous families plunged into grief due to the death of their loved ones. Today it is possible to recall the wooden houses on fire, the bombs that exploded one after another over the city, and the innocent people who were struck down by bullets. In this way, historical memory becomes an essential tool to prevent forgetting and to instruct new generations about the repercussions of violence and the intervention of other countries. As a Panamanian, I went through the pain of losing a loved one, a very close brother distinguished by his convictions and for the freedom of his nation. I am referring to the young Alejandro Hubbard Torrero, who fell in the military invasion of Panama. Alejandro Hubbard Torrero, defender of national sovereignty. For years, the body of that missing patriot was unsuccessfully searched for in common graves. Likewise, it is necessary to reaffirm the importance of sovereignty, peace, and respect among nations. However, the large size of the invading forces and American violence imposed a very high price on the Panamanian population. The most massacred area by foreign troops was the populous neighborhood of El Chorrillo, in the Panamanian capital. It is necessary to honor those who fought, who suffered.