Minister Naď unveils the Czechoslovak RAF Airman Ladislav Žilák Memorial in Poltár

Defence Minister Jaroslav Naď attended the Czechoslovak RAF Airman Ladislav Žilák Memorial unveiling ceremony in Poltár today. F/Sgt Ladislav Žilák served in the British Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War II. Mayor of Poltár Martina Brisudová and a nephew of Ladislav Žilák joined Minister Naď in unveiling the Memorial. The ceremony included a dedication service and a Slovak Air Force (SVK AF) flypast.

Speaking at the unveiling, Jaroslav Naď said: “All heroes and heroines who fought for life in a free country without the shackles of totalitarianism deserve a dignified resting place and their legacy to be preserved in national memory. It is important to commemorate not only their valour and bravery, but also what a cumbersome struggle it takes to restore lost freedom.”

A total of 10,000 euros were donated towards building the Memorial from the MOD Grant Scheme, Minister Naď added.

Speaking on the occasion, Mayor of Poltár Martina Brisudová said: “The Memorial to this fallen soldier stands as a reminder of gratitude by the residents of Poltár to a fellow native and wireless operator who served in the Royal Air Force in the years 1942-1944 on behalf of a free Europe. We honour his memory!”

Ladislav Žilák was born on 30 August 1921 in Poltár. Aged 21, he entered the Royal Air Force. As a wireless operator in No 311 (Czechoslovak) Bomber Squadron RAF, he took part in air battles over England and in bombing raids deep into Germany, via the English Channel. Ladislav Žilák's final flight took place on 29 June 1944. He died in the crash of Liberator GR Mk. V BZ754(J) shortly after its take-off from RAF Predannack. He rests in peace in Helston Cemetery, Cornwall, South West England.