VIDOVDAN OBELEJEN IN KRAGUJEVCA: Wedding ceremony and tribute to the heroes who died for the freedom of Serbia (PHOTO)

In Kragujevac, Serbia, the city marked the Day of Saint Vitus—known as Vidovdan—with solemn ceremonies honoring those who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of the nation. The observance took place at two significant locations: the Old Military Cemetery in Šumarice and the monument known as “Uspenje” located in the city center. These sites were chosen to pay tribute to fallen soldiers and civilians who gave their lives during various conflicts throughout Serbian history.

The ceremony included laying flowers and offering respects to the memory of those who perished in wars spanning multiple centuries. Officials and representatives from various organizations participated in the event, including members of the City Council for Investments and Project Management, representatives of the Serbian Army, the Association of Descendants of Serbian Warriors from 1912–1920, the Association of War Invalids and Families of Fallen Soldiers from Kragujevac, the City Committee of SUBNOR, and combat organizations. Additionally, family members of deceased soldiers attended the event.

Marko Janković, representing the City of Kragujevac, emphasized the importance of remembering all those who contributed to the liberation of Serbia and fought for its freedom over the centuries. He noted that the city honors everyone who played a role in securing national independence and preserving the dignity of the Serbian people.

Vidovdan holds both religious and historical significance for Serbs. It is one of the most important holidays in the Serbian Orthodox Church and also marks several major military victories and historical trials faced by the nation. According to Janković, this day serves as a reminder of the enduring desire of the Serbian people to preserve their freedom and honor.

Milan Vujičić, president of the Association of Descendants of Serbian Warriors from 1912–1920, highlighted the tradition of commemorating Vidovdan at the Old Military Cemetery, which was initiated by the very soldiers themselves. He stressed that it is the duty of current generations to maintain the culture of remembrance, to keep alive the memory of those who died for freedom, and to visit places where Serbian soldiers fell with respect.

Milan Spasić, president of the Assembly of the Association of War Invalids and Families of Fallen Soldiers, mentioned that today's gathering honored not only those who died in armed conflicts between 1991 and 1999 but also all those who laid down their lives for the freedom of Serbia. By placing wreaths near the “Uspenje” monument and paying homage, they aimed to preserve the memory of these individuals' bravery and sacrifice.

Meanwhile, in Niš, another ceremony took place on Vidovdan, focusing specifically on those who lost their lives during the NATO bombing of Kosovo and Metohija in 1999. At the Church of St. Basil Ostroski, participants placed wreaths and offered prayers for the fallen soldiers and police officers. This location houses a memorial crypt containing the names of 1,139 members of the Yugoslav Army, police, and security forces who perished during the conflict.

Among those present was Snežana Denčić from Leskovac, whose husband, Mile, died in the battle at Košara. She shared her personal grief, stating that although 27 years have passed since his death, she and her family continue to carry the pain of losing him. She expressed that no enemy could ever wish upon someone the experience of such loss.

Representatives from veteran associations emphasized the need to uphold the culture of remembrance, noting that each soldier dies twice—once when bravely falling on the battlefield and again when forgotten by society. They stated that visiting the memorial twice a year, once on March 24th—the anniversary of the start of the NATO aggression—and again on Vidovdan, is crucial to keeping the memory of the fallen alive.

Dragan Antić, state secretary at the Ministry of Labor, Employment, Veterans, and Social Issues, spoke about the significance of the memorial crypt, calling it a sacred site for Serbia. He urged young people to visit the site with full respect, lighting candles and praying for forgiveness for those whose names are etched into the walls. He emphasized that no name should ever be forgotten and that it is the responsibility of current generations to ensure that future ones remember the sacrifices made.

The memorial crypt in Niš was officially opened on March 24, 2024, marking a new chapter in the ongoing effort to honor those who lost their lives defending the country. Both in Kragujevac and Niš, the ceremonies served as powerful reminders of the sacrifices made by past generations and the continued commitment to remembering them.