Suddenly I heard: "Goodness, the Seer!"

In June 2026, a memorial ceremony was held at Lipe Sprave on Ljubljana's Žale, where a testimony by Vida Cvelbar was read aloud. This account detailed her experiences during World War II, particularly focusing on the activities of the Slovenian Home Guard (Domobranci) in the region around Trebnje and Pluska. The testimony provides a deeply personal perspective on the war’s impact on civilians and the brutal realities faced by both soldiers and ordinary citizens.

Cvelbar recounted how she was just nine years old when the war began, but the horrors of conflict had already shaped her understanding of the world. She described the constant fear and anxiety that gripped her family as they lived under the threat of partisan attacks. Her father, who was part of the Home Guard, left their home in early May 1945, heading towards Koroška. This departure marked a significant shift in the family dynamics, as they were now left without his protection and support.

The atmosphere within the household became tense and uncertain. Conversations grew scarce, and even when spoken, they were conducted in whispers. Cvelbar noted the growing fear among the children, especially after hearing about the fate of other families affected by the war. One night, a bloodied local boy arrived at their window, seeking help before fleeing into the unknown. This incident further deepened the sense of dread and vulnerability felt by the family.

As the war progressed, Cvelbar observed the increasing presence of military vehicles passing through their village. These trucks, often covered in tarps, moved quickly along the winding roads, carrying unknown passengers. The sight of these vehicles filled her with unease, as they seemed to symbolize the ongoing violence and uncertainty surrounding them.

One afternoon, while standing near the road, Cvelbar witnessed a group of trucks approaching once again. As she watched, she heard voices calling out, “Goodbye, Vidka!” followed by the sight of two young men inside one of the trucks waving at her. Their gestures were frantic, almost desperate, as if trying to communicate something urgent. This moment left her frozen in place, overwhelmed by fear and confusion. The realization that these young men might have been part of the Home Guard added another layer of complexity to her experience, highlighting the human cost of the war.

Emil Savelli, a former member of the Slovenian National Defense Corps (SNVZ), also shared insights into the operations of the Home Guard in the areas of Primorska and Notranjska. His account detailed the strategic maneuvers undertaken by the Home Guard against the partisans, including the successful attack on Col, which was situated on a hill. The battle was intense, requiring careful planning and coordination. The Home Guard managed to capture Col, establishing a stronghold that prevented the partisans from moving freely between Trnovski Gozd and Kras.

Savelli's narrative emphasized the challenges faced by the Home Guard, particularly in navigating difficult terrain such as the high ground of Col. Despite these obstacles, the Home Guard demonstrated resilience and tactical acumen, ultimately securing victories that contributed to the broader resistance efforts. The battle at Col marked a turning point, showcasing the determination of the Home Guard to protect their communities from partisan incursions.

The testimonies of both Cvelbar and Savelli provide a comprehensive view of the complex interplay between civilian life and military conflict during this period. They highlight the sacrifices made by individuals caught in the crossfire of larger political struggles, emphasizing the personal toll of war on families and communities. The accounts serve as poignant reminders of the human dimension behind historical events, offering insight into the fears, hopes, and resilience of those who lived through these tumultuous times.

As the memorial ceremony continued, the stories shared by Cvelbar and others resonated deeply with attendees, underscoring the importance of remembering the past. These narratives not only honor the memory of those who suffered but also contribute to a more nuanced understanding of history, ensuring that future generations can learn from the experiences of those who came before them. The legacy of the Home Guard and the partisans continues to shape discussions about national identity, resistance, and the enduring impact of war on society.