Turkuvaz Media Group honors July 15 victims at Ankara event

Turkuvaz Media Group honored the victims of the failed July 15, 2016, coup attempt in Ankara on Tuesday, organizing a commemorative event at the July 15 Democracy Museum with the support of the Culture and Tourism Ministry. The gathering included speeches, a panel discussion, documentary screenings, musical performances and an exhibition dedicated to the public resistance that thwarted the Gülenist Terror Group (FETÖ) plot. A minute of silence was observed in remembrance of those who lost their lives during the coup and veterans who have since passed away, followed by the playing of the Turkish national anthem. The event featured remarks from prominent figures, including Deputy Culture and Tourism Minister Gökhan Yazgı, Bilge Gürs, chairperson of the Foundation for the Solidarity of Martyrs' Families and Veterans of Türkiye, and Ruhi Ersoy, chief adviser to the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) chair. Takvim newspaper columnist Ekrem Kızıltaş delivered the welcome address, setting the tone for discussions on the significance of July 15. Yazgı highlighted the historical context of the coup, describing it as the culmination of a decades-long effort to undermine the Turkish state. He noted that the establishment of the July 15 Democracy Museum aimed to preserve the memory of the day and ensure it is never forgotten. Yazgı emphasized that July 15 represented a victory of faith over power, stating that the coup attempt was part of a 40-year scheme that was ultimately foiled. He credited President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan for standing firm in his commitment to the will of the people and underscored the importance of remembering the sacrifices made during the resistance. "The message written in the blood of our martyrs and veterans is that this country will never again experience military interventions like Sept. 12. We will never allow these events to be forgotten," he said. Kızıltaş framed July 15 as a pivotal moment in Turkey’s history, noting that the country emerged stronger in defending its democracy and combating terrorism following the failed coup. He expressed concerns about individuals still receiving protection abroad, suggesting that some key figures continue to benefit from foreign support. "Since July 15, Türkiye has been able to fight terrorism more effectively and has made significant progress in safeguarding the will of the nation," he added. Gürs, whose family suffered losses during the coup, spoke emotionally about the personal toll of the event. She described herself as someone from a family with two martyrs and two veterans, recalling how she lost both her father and husband while serving the nation. "Ten years have passed, but we have never forgotten that day," she said. Gürs urged the audience to reflect on those who betrayed their country for financial gain and to honor the heroes who stood against them. She reiterated the foundation’s commitment to ensuring that no martyr’s relatives suffer and no veteran stands alone. Following the speeches, a Quran recitation was performed by Muhammet Mansur Sağ, bringing the event to a solemn close. The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the Turkish people and the enduring legacy of the July 15 resistance. As the nation continues to grapple with the consequences of the coup attempt, the event reinforced the importance of vigilance, unity and the unyielding defense of democratic values.