Arturo Prat - Duty of the common man

Arturo Prat Chacón was a Chilean Navy officer and lawyer who became a national hero after his death at the Battle of Iquique during the War of the Pacific.

Born in 1848, Prat entered the Naval Academy at the age of 10. He stood out for his discipline and dedication, graduating as a midshipman at the age of 18. Throughout his career, he participated in several naval battles, including the battles of Papudo and Abtao.

Prat also devoted himself to the study of law, becoming the first lawyer in the Chilean Navy. His personal life was characterized by his deep love for his wife, Carmela Carvajal, and his three children.

On May 21, 1879, in command of the corvette Esmeralda, Prat faced the Peruvian monitor Huáscar in the Battle of Iquique. Despite the inferiority of his ship, Prat refused to surrender and led a brave attack against the enemy. During the boarding of the Huáscar, Prat died heroically.

His sacrifice and bravery made him a symbol of courage and patriotism for Chile. His phrase "Boys, the fight is uneven... Let it never be said that the enemy has seen us off guard!" became an inspiring motto for future generations.

In short, the life of Arturo Prat is the story of a man who embodied the values ​​of honor, duty and sacrifice. His legacy continues to inspire Chileans to this day.