MITROVDAN BATTLES A SYMBOL OF SERBS' UNWAVERING WILL TO SURVIVE

BELGRADE, NOVEMBER 8 /SRNA/ - Miodrag Linta, president of the Alliance of Serbs from the Region, said that the Mitrovdan Battles in 1992 and 1994 symbolized the strength, unity, and unwavering determination of the Serb people of Nevesinje to remain on their land.

"At a time when the fate of Nevesinje and the whole of Herzegovina was at stake, Serb fighters showed that freedom and the defense of their homeland were values for which they were prepared to make the greatest sacrifice," Linta said.

He stressed that during those difficult days, Serb fighters displayed exceptional courage, determination and self-sacrifice, defending their homes, families and the right of Serbs to live in the lands where they had lived for centuries.

He also emphasized the importance of remembering the fallen heroes who gave their lives in laying the foundations of freedom for Nevesinje, Herzegovina and Republika Srpska.

"Their names and their sacrifice must never be forgotten. We owe them eternal respect and have an obligation to preserve the truth about their struggle and keep their memory alive for future generations," Linta said.

He stressed the importance of passing on the truth about the Mitrovdan Battles to younger generations, saying that a people who honour their heroes, remember those who suffered and preserve their historical heritage have the strength to safeguard their identity and dignity.

"By preserving the memory of the heroes of Mitrovdan, we also preserve the values of freedom, unity and Republika Srpska," Linta added.

During the first Mitrovdan offensive, which began on November 8, 1992, 41 members of the Republika Srpska Army and one civilian were killed, while more than 100 fighters and five civilians were wounded.

The Second Mitrovdan Battle was fought in November 1994 and ended in the defeat of the forces of the so-called Army of BiH. A total of 26 fighters were killed and 68 wounded in the fighting, 42 of them seriously, while four civilians were killed.