15.12.2009.

Marking 95 years of the Kolubara battle

In the presence of the SAF CHOD LTG Miloje Miletic, the representatives of MoD and SAF, diplomatic representatives of WWI participating countries and of the local self-government, a state ceremony marking 95 years of the Kolubara battle was held today near Lazarevac, near the Memorial to the Serbian warrior.

The commemorative wreaths on the crypt where the remains of 40000 soldiers were laid to rest, were placed by the representatives of the Government of Serbia, of SAF, MoD, ambassadors of the victorious side, the Great Britain and Russia as well as of the defeated side, of Austria, Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic which confirmed the readiness of once opposing sides and enemies to live in peace and harmony. Furthermore, this ceremony was also attended by the organizations cherishing the traditions of liberating wars of Serbia.

SAF CHOD LTG Miloje Miletic, after reading the order which marked the start of the glorious counteroffensive of the Serbian forces in a battle which lasted for a month, addressed the guests, dignitaries and numerous citizens, reminding them of the need to be realistic in assessing one’s might and power, as well as of the morale and the wish for glory that the Serbian military possessed, as these were the decisive factors in making them the victorious side.

“The Kolubara battle marks one of the greatest victories of the Serbian forces and allies. This is why we have gathered here today, to pay our respects to these glorious strategists, obscure and well-renowned, and all those who laid their lives into the foundations of the future victory of our army, thus raising the credibility of the Kingdom of Serbia in the whirlwind of war that swept over the world”.

Today our armed forces mark 95 years opting for transformation, interoperability and professional army, all processes we have already initiated. SAF officers are at studies in foreign military schools, where the war strategies and feats of their forefathers are studied carefully”

The ceremony ended with a program honoring Duke Zivojin Misic, whose tactics represent a unique example of a military strategy upturn, which enabled this most glorious victories of all WWI battles. He was awarded the rank of Duke after this battle.