Georgia Marks Victory Day over Fascism

On May 9 Georgians mark the victory of the Soviet Union over Nazi Germany and the end of the Second World War (WWII). 

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

Prime Minister Mamuka Bakhtadze laid a wreath at the grave of an “Unknown Soldier” in the park, noting May 9 is a special day in the history of mankind. He wished health to the war veterans.

"I want to congratulate everyone on this day, especially our veterans. Hundreds of thousands of Georgian heroes have fallen on the battlefield and I want to pay tribute to their memory. And I want to wish health, happiness and prosperity to the veterans and their family members," he added.

Tbilisi Mayor, Kakha Kaladze also congratulated war veterans on the Victory Day.

“74 years have passed since the victory over Fascism. War heroes saved humanity from the Fascism by sacrificing their lives. I would like to wish our veterans long life and prosperity,” he said.

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.

By Thea Morrison

Photo source: 1TV