09.03.2026.
Commemorative medals presented to veterans and war-disabled veterans from Lučani municipality
Today, Minister of Defence Bratislav Gašić presented commemorative medals to veterans and war-disabled veterans from the municipality of Lučani.
At the event, Minister Gašić stressed that today’s gathering is a tribute to the people who, when the homeland faced its greatest challenges and called on its sons and daughters, stood to its defence.- They did not concern themselves with the strength of the enemy they faced, but focused on the significance of what they were defending. And they defended more than just territory - they defended Serbia’s right to exist, to determine its own destiny, and to ensure that all its citizens can live freely and with dignity. The courage of the fighters from this region, their determination, and their readiness to make the highest personal sacrifice for a greater cause are a source of pride, a pledge, and a shining example for all of us - Minister of Defence said.
He said that few countries have suffered as much as Serbia throughout history, and that this was all because we refused to turn away from justice and honesty.
- We suffered because we refused to abandon the values upon which the strong foundations of Serbian identity are built, because in the hardest moments for humanity, we stood proudly and honourably, with integrity and clear conscience. That is why we have always been a thorn in the side of those with different views, of which there have been many. They wanted to see Serbia’s commitment to justice destroyed. They have wanted it for a long time, but it has never happened, and it never will. Along the way, they encountered you, dear veterans, and those before you. And to anyone who still wishes for it, we can say with certainty that it will never happen, for they will always face people inspired by your example, people who would give up everything for freedom, but would never trade freedom for anything – Minister Gašić emphasized.The Minister of Defence also noted that today, the Ministry of Defence and the Serbian Armed Forces are investing in strengthening operational capabilities more than ever before.
- By acquiring cutting-edge weapons and military equipment, by implementing infrastructure projects, and by improving the living standards of our service members, we have significantly strengthened our armed forces and made them the strongest deterrent against any potential aggressors. Part of our arsenal was on display during the large Power of Unity military parade held last September. But we have not stopped there, every day we continue to advance and strengthen our country’s defence system. The smart policy of military neutrality pursued by the state leadership headed by President Aleksandar Vučić gives us the ability to cooperate with countries around the world and to assess situation and developments from multiple perspectives – Minister Gašić said.
The Minister of Defence emphasized the significance of the commemorative medals, noting that now, as always, we remain true to our principle that we should never desire what belongs to others, but should always be ready to defend what is ours.- The medals we are presenting today are a symbol of the Republic of Serbia’s gratitude to the fighters who wore the uniform with pride, fulfilling the highest duty, but one that is never easy – defending the homeland. They serve as another reminder that the freedom we enjoy today, did not come by itself. It was never guaranteed, but earned through the courage and sacrifice of many. Today, we show that Serbia remembers and respects its heroes - people who, in times of trial, never questioned the cost of freedom, but were ready to pay it – the Minister said.
Addressing the veterans, Minister Gašić said that the Republic of Serbia has not forgotten them.
- Your names are written in golden letters in our history and our gratitude and respect for you will live forever. The example you set guides us, and your deeds will be passed on to future generations, whom we teach that their every action should be worthy of their ancestors. Without you, there would be no us – Minister Gašić emphasized. Today’s ceremony was attended by Colonel Nikola Matović, Chief of Staff to the Minister of Defence, and Predrag Ilić, General Director of Milan Blagojević-Namenska, Lučani.
The Veteran Commemorative Medal was established under the Law on the Rights of Veterans, War-Disabled Veterans, Civilian Invalids of War, and their Family Members, as well as by the Decree on the Veteran Commemorative Medal passed by the Government of the Republic of Serbia in March 2023.