Medical Care in the United States
Aníbal describes his trips to the United States to recieve medical care for his injured hands.
Chapter 6: Resettlement & the "Desembarco"
Many Salvadorans returned from refugee camps in Honduras in the late 1980s, but faced continued repression upon their return. Refugees were stigmatized as guerrilla supporters. Just days after officially resettling Arcatao in early 1986, the population was targeted by military operations. In an operation which community members call the “Desembarco,” Arcatao was invaded by troops who arrived suddenly in helicopters. The population was ordered to go to the center of town, where the men were separated from the women and children. The men were interrogated and publicly tortured while the women and children were held in the church and threatened. Several men were taken by soldiers and disappeared. Survivors credit an intervention by foreign journalists, who were arrested in the operation, with preventing a larger massacre. Arcatao and other resettled populations found international support vital, including the humanitarian work of individuals and organizations, and sister relationships with cities and churches around the world.
Refugee Experiences
Emeteria remembers the process of resettlement in Guarjila after returning from the Mesa Grande refugee camp in Honduras.
Resettlement and the 1986 Invasion
Trinidad describes her experience of the 1986 “Desembarco” invasion in Arcatao, the involvement of a particular commander, and the resettlement process.
The “Desembarco”
Lidia remembers the 1986 “Desembarco” invasion of Arcatao and tells how she was threatened during the weeks prior to the invasion.
The 1986 “Desembarco” Invasion: Inside the ChurchPrimary tabs
Clara describes her experience of the 1986 invasion in Arcatao, during which town residents were locked inside the church.
The 1986 Invasion
Nelson describes the 1986 invasion of Arcatao by the military, during which the population was separated, with women held inside the church while men were lined up outside to be interrogated and tortured.
The 1986 Invasion
Carlota remembers a grenade explosion in her home during the 1986 invasion and the threats to the civilian population inside the town church.
The 1986 Invasion: Interrogation of Women & Children
Esperanza describes the 1986 invasion in Arcatao, and relates how children were interrogated by the military.
Detained During Resettlement
While returning from Honduras to resettle Arcatao, Arminda and others were detained at a military detachment for fifteen days.
Initial Resettlements
Celestino reflects on one of the most moving moments of his life – the resettlement of the community of San José Las Flores.
Resettlement and Dangers of Landmines
Emeteria describes the process of resettlement in Guarjila, Chalatenango, and the dangers returnees faced due to landmines.
Return to Arcatao
Damián describes the resettlement process beginning in 1987, during which communal cooperation was an important element.