Georgia Marks Victory Day over Fascism

Today Georgians mark the Victory Day which commemorates the victory of the Soviet Union over Nazi Germany and the end of the Second World War (WWII). 

Representatives of the Georgian government, President and citizens gathered in Vake Park in central Tbilisi to put flowers on the monument of the "Unknown Soldier."

After putting a wreath at the monument, the President of Georgia, Giorgi Margvelashvili, congratulated veterans gathered there, adding that people aged 100 years and more will be awarded with the Order of Honor for personal contribution to the development of the veterans' movement in World War II.

“I would like to thank and express respect to each person who participated in this fight,” Margvelashvili added.

Georgian Prime Minister, Giorgi Kvirikashvili, also attended the memorial ceremony.

“I want to congratulate everybody on the day of victory over fascism. I'd especially like to congratulate the veterans. It is our duty to appreciate their heroism. They are valuable people who sacrificed their lives for their homeland. Georgia has paid a great sacrifice. Over 300,000 people have not returned,” the PM said.

The Parliament Speaker, Irakli Kobakhidze, also congratulated veterans of the war, saying Georgia’s legislative body is ready to discuss all measures that will improve veteran’s lives in the country.

“I want to congratulate everyone on this day, especially our veterans. I wish them prosperity and health,” Kobakhidze stated.

The Second World War was a global war that lasted from 1939 to 1945, although related conflicts began earlier.

Victory in Europe Day, generally known as V-Day, was the public holiday celebrated on 8 May 1945 to mark the formal acceptance by the Allies of World War II of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender of its armed forces. The formal surrender of the German forces occupying the Channel Islands did not occur until the following day, 9 May 1945. It thus marked the end of World War II in Europe.

In Russia and former-Soviet countries, Victory Day is usually celebrated on May 9.

By Thea Morrison

Photo source: President's Press Office