We shall never forget

The Minister of Defence of the SR Martin Glváč paid tribute to the victims of World War II. The solemn ceremony was held on the occasion of the Day of Victory over fascism at the Slavín memorial. This year, Slovakia and the whole Europe commemorate the 68th anniversary of the end of World War II. ‘It is crucial to commemorate this day and not forget those whose acts of bravery brought about peace,’ stated the Minister of Defence Martin Glváč.  As he said, it is vital to prevent a historic recurrence of the war events. That is why it is important to instill awareness of World War II events in young people.

The Minister of Defence presented commemorative medals to the two surviving fighters against fascism, Ivan Albini and Vojtech Ozorovský. As for Ivan Albini, the most difficult moment for him was the feeling of helplessness against fascists. ‘They caught us unprepared. They were the difficult times.  I hold in high esteem those who, under the conditions of 1944, were able to revolt and hence contribute to the ultimate victory,’ he added.

On this occasion, Vladimír Turanec and Jaroslav Čelko, who also participated in the Slovak National Uprising, were promoted to the ranks of Lieutenant Colonel by the Minister of Defence of the SR.

In the solemn ceremony took part also the Prime Minister of the SR Robert Fico, members of the Government, representatives of diplomatic missions and members of the Slovak Association of Anti-Fascist Fighters, to include those who had directly participated in the anti-fascist resistance.