75. výročie oslobodenia

Únia vojnových veteránov Slovenskej republiky / Slovak War Veteran Association NOT ALWAYS YOU CAN, BUT SOMETIMES YOU HAVE “VICTORY DAY” – a national day nowadays sadly seen just as a day off work and for most attending the official commemorations became just a formality. Current situation due to the pandemic has put all public gatherings on hold, therefore the mass celebration that we are used to every year is out of question. Although we realize these changes and limitations to our lives are inconvenient, they are nowhere near as destructive and uncompromising as those brought by WAR. Peace, freedom and human rights are now taken for granted but not so during war. Tens of millions of casualties of World War II serve as a reminder that humanity should never let it happen again but also never forget. It shouldn’t be a shame, but quite the opposite it should be encouraged to show respect to those who sacrificed their lives so we could live in peace. There is only a handful of those who remember the time when the Czechoslovak Army brought freedom from the east with help from the Red Army, Romanian Army and many others. It is amazing to listen to one of them, resistance fighter Vladimir Strmen born in the village Stare Hory, as he recollects the day the war ended. 75 Years later the memories of tragic moments, loss of friends and fellow fighters are not lost, but also the determination and courage remain. It brings tears to the eyes as he talks about the joy and the urge to sing and dance around as the news arrived – war is over. Freedom and peace, sun was suddenly shining brighter and warmer the will to live was blooming. These are moments worthy of keeping in our treasured memories. In Slovak War Veteran Association, we feel the same. That’s why despite the current situation we decided to commemorate those who we owe so much. LEST WE FORGET, REST IN PEACE @Tomáš Hajzer