In 1770s Juan Joseph de Iramain had been promoted to Lieutenant colonel (Captain) of the 1° regiment. In 1780 he was elected Alcalde in first vote, and was appointed Governor of Arms of Santiago del Estero in 1786. During the British invasions, Iramain commanded the militias of Santiago del Estero, participating heroically of the defense and reconquest of Buenos Aires. He had led one of the two militia companies, made up of Cavalry volunteers sent from their home province.