UNITY IS ESSENTIAL TO PRESERVE PEACE, FREEDOM, AND SRPSKA

SRBAC, JUNE 7 /SRNA/ – Preserving peace, freedom, and Republika Srpska is an obligation that can only be achieved through unity and solidarity, Minister of Labour, War Veterenas and Disabled Persons Protection Radan Ostojić stressed at the commemoration marking the 34th anniversary of the establishment of the First Srbac Light Infantry Brigade.

Ostojić emphasized that members of the Republika Srpska Army and the Ministry of Interior were the most deserving of the freedom enjoyed by Republika Srpska today, as they marked its borders with their lives, body parts and blood.

“Those who fought and died for freedom throughout history have left us with the obligation to preserve peace, freedom, and Republika Srpska. If we do so, we will honour both those of us who participated in the Defensive-Patriotic War, but if we betray these ideals, those who fell will not forgive us,” Ostojić said.

He pointed to the importance of remembering fallen comrades and passing the culture of remembrance on to younger generations.

“As long as they live in those memories, Republika Srpska, for which they gave their lives, will live as well,” Ostojić said.

He pointed out that the path of the Serb soldier has always been difficult and marked by the defence of ancestral homes, noting that 66 members of the First Srbac Light Infantry Brigade did not return from the war.

Ostojić added that, under current circumstances, the only path worth following is the path of victory, resurrection, Christ, Saint Sava, the Serbian Orthodox Church, heroism, sacrifice, mutual respect, and understanding.

“Republika Srpska and freedom were reborn on that path. If we continue along it, I am confident that we will preserve these values,” Ostojić emphasized, noting that the Serb people in this region cannot enjoy freedom without Republika Srpska.

Today in Srbac, Ostojić laid a wreath at the central memorial dedicated to fallen members of the First Srbac Light Infantry Brigade, which 3,338 soldiers served during the war.