Algerian Radio
Algerians commemorate this Sunday the 67th anniversary of the martyrdom of Colonel Amirouche Ait Hamouda (1926–1959), a legendary symbol of the National Liberation War and commander of the historic Wilaya III.
Testimonies from Mujahidine describe Colonel Amirouche as a brilliant strategist and a charismatic military leader known for his unwavering discipline. He assumed command of the historic Wilaya III in July 1957, confronting the French colonial army with exceptional bravery.
In his book Akfadou: A Year with Colonel Amirouche, the late Mujahid Hamou Amirouche noted that the Colonel's strict moral integrity was essential to sustaining the struggle. Similarly, the late Mujahid Djoudi Attoumi, in Colonel Amirouche: Between Myth and History, highlighted that after the Soummam Congress (August 20, 1956), Amirouche embodied the necessary qualities of a leader: determination, courage, and a spirit of sacrifice.
Nicknamed the "Fox of Akfadou," he revitalized combat units, leading to the Wilaya III having 28 battalions equipped with modern weaponry by 1958. He personally oversaw military operations and introduced the "Medal of Courage" to foster competition among fighters.
The Peak of the Struggle
In 1958, the activity of the National Liberation Army (ALN) reached its peak in the Wilaya III, forcing the French army to establish 546 military posts and adopt "scorched earth" policies. To counter this, Colonel Amirouche organized stocks of supplies and medicines and divided units into small, highly mobile groups.
The Mujahidine carried out numerous heroic operations across the Wilaya, making the region completely insecure for the occupier. Notable battles included the attack on the Hourane center in the Wilaya of M'sila (February 1958), where weapons were captured and 14 French soldiers were taken prisoner, and ambushes near Sidi Aïch (Béjaïa) and Azazga (Tizi Ouzou).
Colonel Amirouche fell on the field of honor on March 29, 1959, alongside Colonel Si El Haouès at Djebel Thamer, near Bou Saâda, after a fierce battle against colonial forces. To this day, he remains a legend, celebrated for his greatness and historic victories.
