Overview
Fernando Matthei Aubel (11 July 1925 – 19 November 2017) was a senior officer of the Chilean Air Force. Born in Osorno, Chile, he rose through the ranks to become Commander in Chief of the Air Force and was a member of the military government that exercised executive power in Chile during the late twentieth century.
Military career and appointments
Matthei spent most of his career in the air service branch of Chile’s armed forces. In July 1978 he succeeded General Gustavo Leigh as Commander in Chief of the Air Force, a post that placed him among the nation’s top military leaders. He remained an active officer until his retirement in July 1991.
Role in government
During the military administration that governed Chile from 1973 to 1990, Matthei served in both military and civilian capacities. He was appointed Minister of Health from 1976 to 1978, and he sat on the ruling junta as one of the armed services’ representatives from the late 1970s until the transition toward democratic rule.
Timeline and notable dates
- 1925: Born in Osorno.
- 1976–1978: Served as Minister of Health.
- 24 July 1978: Appointed Commander in Chief of the Air Force.
- 1977–1990: Member of the military junta.
- July 1991: Retired from the Air Force.
- 19 November 2017: Died in Santiago of cardiopulmonary arrest at age 92.
Legacy and context
Matthei’s career is tied to a period of Chilean history marked by military rule and a later, gradual return to civilian government. His elevation to the air force’s highest post followed internal shifts within the armed forces and helped define the service’s leadership through the final decade of the junta. Contemporary assessments note his administrative roles and long service while debates about the broader political era remain subjects of historical study.
Further notes
- Public service: Held a cabinet-level portfolio (Health) in the 1970s.
- Military leadership: Commanded the Air Force during a politically consequential period.
- End of life: Lived to age 92 and died in the Chilean capital.