Tashkent, May 8, 2025 – The Europe Today: On the occasion of the Day of Remembrance and Honor, Uzbekistan marked the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II with a solemn commemorative ceremony held at Victory Park in Tashkent. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev participated in the event, paying tribute to the countless sacrifices made by the Uzbek people during the war and underscoring the enduring value of peace.
Despite the passage of eight decades, the memory of the war remains vivid in the hearts and minds of the nation. The Day of Remembrance and Honor, observed annually on May 9, serves as a poignant reminder of the hardships endured, the courage displayed, and the ultimate price paid by millions in the name of victory over fascism.
Upon his arrival at Victory Park, President Mirziyoyev laid a wreath at the Ode to Fortitude Monument, a majestic memorial that encapsulates the suffering, resilience, and valor of the Uzbek people during the war. Throughout the park, solemn music echoed through the air, as citizens gathered to reflect and pay their respects.
Archival data reveals that nearly 2 million people from Uzbekistan — then a republic of only 6.8 million — took part in the war effort. Of these, approximately 540,000 perished, 158,000 were declared missing, more than 50,000 died in concentration camps, and over 60,000 returned home disabled. The heroism of Uzbek soldiers and officers was recognized with the awarding of 214,000 military orders and medals.
Uzbekistan also played a vital role on the home front, serving as a dependable rear base that provided enormous volumes of equipment, weapons, clothing, and food to support the war effort. Remarkably, the Uzbek people opened their homes to 1.5 million evacuees, including 250,000 orphans, offering refuge and compassion despite their own hardships.
“All of this is a chronicle of true courage and heroism,” said President Mirziyoyev during the ceremony. “We have every right to be proud of our brave people who made a worthy contribution to such a difficult and glorious Victory. This heroism must never be forgotten. We must pass these facts on to the younger generation. It is vital in today’s troubling times. We must be ready daily to defend our Motherland.”
In accordance with the Presidential Decree issued on February 19, the 80th anniversary of Victory in World War II is being widely commemorated across the country. Nationwide events are being held to honor the fallen and to express gratitude to veterans and elderly citizens who contributed to the wartime effort.
The commemorative ceremony in Victory Park was attended by representatives of the Armed Forces, government institutions, public organizations, mahalla activists, and esteemed elders. Participants laid flowers at the monument, and President Mirziyoyev also visited the “Light of Remembrance” installation.
This contemporary art composition, featuring two soaring birds, symbolizes the continuity of generations and pays homage to the heroism of those who fought on the front lines and supported the war effort at home. Visitors to the monument can access more information through a QR code and download a dedicated book titled Light of Remembrance.
With reverence and national pride, Uzbekistan continues to honor the legacy of its wartime generation — a generation whose sacrifices laid the foundation for peace and prosperity in the years that followed.
