D. Blas de Lezo and the pirates

For some time now, we've increasingly seen the unofficial use of pirate flags within military units as a reflection of their character.

In the grand tapestry of naval history, there emerge two contrasting figures, each a symbol of the vast dichotomy that the seas harbor. On one side stands D. Blas de Lezo, the formidable Spanish admiral, a testament to strategic prowess and relentless courage. On the other side, the unnamed collective of pirates, figures shrouded in fear and myth, whose stories have permeated the annals of maritime lore.

D. Blas de Lezo, born in an era marked by war and discovery, demonstrated his unwavering spirit and unmatched skill in navigating the tumultuous tides of fate. Despite losing a leg, the use of an eye, and an arm to warfare, he persevered, earning him the moniker "Medio hombre". His triumph at the Battle of Cartagena de Indias, where he defended the city against a considerably larger British fleet with just a small force, remains his greatest legacy. His victories weren't just displays of power; they bore testament to a man's unyielding spirit, undeterred by adversity. Lezo symbolized Spanish resilience, courage, and tenacity, his deeds an enduring beacon in Spanish naval history.

On the other side of this spectrum, there lies the faceless mass of pirates, an embodiment of trepidation and the untamed chaos of the seas. Known for their fearsome reputations, pirates often incited terror long before their black flags were sighted on the horizon. Their lives, marked by plunder and lawlessness, were woven with tales of audacity and survival. They thrived amidst the unpredictability of the seas and the edges of the known world. Despite their outlaw status, their narratives have become an inseparable part of maritime folklore, their influence felt in every tale of treasure maps and hidden loot.

The comparison between D. Blas de Lezo and these pirates uncovers the breadth and complexity of humanity when faced with the immeasurable sea. In Lezo, we see an unwavering commander, who with honor, loyalty, and unyielding determination, navigated through insurmountable odds. He stands as an epitome of virtues immortalized in the narratives of Spanish naval history.

On the other hand, the pirates represent the wild and ruthless aspect of seafaring life, living on the edge of society and oftentimes, morality. Their lives, dictated by the capricious nature of the sea and their own relentless pursuit of fortune and freedom, offer a stark contrast to Lezo's disciplined and strategic approach.

In the vast seascape of maritime history, both D. Blas de Lezo and the infamous pirates played their roles with such intensity that their stories continue to shape our collective memory. One man, a paragon of naval strategy and leadership; the others, symbols of untamed lawlessness and audacity. Different as they were, both have left an indelible mark on maritime history, shaping its rich and diverse narrative.

Whether it's the Jolly Roger, Calico Jack, or Blackbeard worn on the arm of SEAL Team 3 member or on the belt of "Obi-Wan Nairobi", I find myself increasingly fond of this I.H.H "Medio Hombre" patch. The fact is, as a Spaniards we have a truly amazing history and there's no need for us to import or assimilate foreign myths.