Roberto Viola vs Trafford Leigh-Mallory

On March 29, 1981, Roberto Viola was appointed President of Argentina by the military junta, succeeding Jorge Videla. His presidency was part of the National Reorganization Process, the military dictatorship that ruled Argentina from 1976 to 1983.

During Viola's presidency, the military junta continued its campaign of state terrorism against leftist guerrillas, political opponents, and suspected subversives. Thousands were kidnapped, tortured, and killed or disappeared. Human rights organizations documented systematic abuses.

On December 11, 1981, Roberto Viola was removed from the presidency by the military junta due to health issues and internal disagreements. He was replaced by Leopoldo Galtieri. Viola's removal reflected instability within the dictatorship.

In 1985, Roberto Viola was convicted by the Argentine courts for human rights abuses committed during the Dirty War, including illegal detentions, torture, and forced disappearances. He was sentenced to 17 years in prison, later reduced.

Leigh-Mallory commanded No. 12 Group, responsible for the Midlands. He advocated the 'Big Wing' tactic, using large fighter formations, which was controversial and led to conflicts with Keith Park and Hugh Dowding.

Leigh-Mallory was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Allied Expeditionary Air Force for the Normandy invasion. He oversaw the air operations supporting D-Day, including bombing of German defenses and transport networks.

Leigh-Mallory died when his aircraft crashed in the French Alps while en route to take up a new command in Southeast Asia. All aboard were killed. The cause was likely bad weather.