Commemorating the Bravery of Frontline Soldiers in Ulytau Region
Celebrating the Great Victory: Honoring Kazakhstan's Heroes in the 20th Century
World War II, a defining period for our nation, took a devastating toll on Kazakhstan. With nearly a fifth of its pre-war population contributing to the war effort, the country lost an estimated 600,000 of its citizens. Now, as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, solemn tributes and patriotic celebrations are held across the nation.
Recently, the region of Zhezkazgan honored the fallen with an emotional event named "Great Victory - Heritage to the Next Generation." The day began with the National Anthem of the Republic of Kazakhstan, followed by a poignant minute of silence and the laying of flowers at the Eternal Flame. Dastan Ryspekov, the region’s Akim, and representatives of the intelligentsia, paid their respects to the unsung heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for their homeland.
A theatrical performance vividly brought to life the struggles of soldiers on the battlefield, while a patriotic concert program filled Alash Square at 19:00 with the spirit of unity and remembrance. It was not long ago that 16,000 residents of the region answered the call to the front. Tragically, more than 10,000 of these brave heroes did not return.
This year, 397 home front workers in the region have been awarded jubilee medals in honor of the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory. In a small but meaningful way, these honors keep the legacy and memory of the fallen alive.
It is essential to remember that Kazakhstan's wartime involvement extended beyond the front lines, with the Republic serving as a critical supplier for the Soviet war effort. The country led in producing crucial metals for the military industry and produced 9 out of 10 bullets used by the Soviet Army.
As we continue to honor and celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, it is important to delve deeper into the history and sacrifice of Kazakhstan during the war. This year, Nur-Sultan hosted a historic military parade, marking the first in seven years, to pay tribute to the veterans. The city also organized concerts, shows, community festivals, and provided financial support to surviving veterans.
Moreover, the special procession Batyrlarğa Tağzym in Almaty honors frontline soldiers and highlights Kazakhstan's unique perspective on World War II. The memory of the war continues to be recognized and understood through new literature, with previously untold stories of Kazakhstan's pivotal role in the conflict coming to light.
In the spirit of keeping the memory of the fallen alive, Kazakhstan plans to name over 500 streets after World War II veterans. These acts serve as a daily reminder to future generations of the deep-rooted patriotism and heroism displayed by Kazakhstani citizens during one of the most challenging periods of the 20th century.
- I will be returning to Zhezkazgan to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, where the fallen heroes are honored each year.
- In the politics of Kazakhstan, the commemoration of the Great Victory and the sacrifices made by its people during the 20th century's war-and-conflicts plays a significant role.
- The region of Zhezkazgan, although known for its general news of minerals and mining, is also a place of great historical significance as it lost over 10,000 residents during World War II.
- This year, I intend to attend the event in Zhezkazgan, named "Great Victory - Heritage to the Next Generation," where jubilee medals are awarded to home front workers in recognition of their efforts during the war.