Children of the Violence

This chapter explores the complex relationship between military children and the military environment, especially in light of the trials against former military personnel. Unlike officers and wives who adapted to military life, these children were born into it, often seeing their fathers’ military identity as an inherent part of their upbringing. Their connections to the military are multifaceted and sometimes contentious, shaped by Argentina’s political history and the legacy of past violence. While many have distanced themselves from the military as adults, the influence of familial ties and political violence persists. The chapter highlights the notion of sacrifice, this time among children, emphasising the family’s subordination to military demands. In the face of condemnation, these filial bonds become crucial, as children often rejoin the military community to support convicted officers, using civilian skills to contribute and reconnect. This re-engagement serves both as a socialisation process and a way to construct their military lineage, providing them with a sense of identity and understanding of their fathers’ actions. Despite internal divisions, the trials have reinforced the need for solidarity within military families and the broader community. The return of military children to this community, driven by obligation and the need for protection, underscores the enduring impact of military identity and condemnation on their lives, as a group within the wider generation of post-authoritarian Argentina.