President of the Organization of Commanding Officers of the Army of Republika Srpska Slobodan Župljanin said that the upcoming gathering of the veteran population in Han Pijesak will be an opportunity to send a clear message about the necessity of unity in preserving Republika Srpska and the values stemming from the Defensive-Patriotic War.
Župljanin said it was significant that the gathering, which will be held on Sunday, August 30, will bring together demobilized veterans, disabled war veterans, families of fallen soldiers and all those who honor the legacy of Serb soldiers.
“This is an opportunity to send a clear message that Republika Srpska must be preserved, as must those who contributed the most to the freedom we have today, because the lives and parts of the bodies of our bravest and most honorable soldiers are embedded in the foundations of that freedom,” Župljanin said.
He stressed that the veteran population, regardless of political differences, should remain united when it comes to fundamental national interests.
“Republika Srpska must establish a minimum set of national interests, and these are the defense of Republika Srpska and the values stemming from the Defensive-Patriotic War,” Župljanin said.
According to him, political parties should compete for their programs and participation in government, but no one governing Republika Srpska should be allowed to bargain away its interests.
“Unity is what we need most right now, and we must rally around Republika Srpska in order to preserve Srpska and the freedom for which our fellow soldiers gave their lives,” Župljanin stressed.
He noted that Han Pijesak was not chosen as the venue by chance, as the headquarters and Main Staff of the Army of Republika Srpska were located in the area. He said it was therefore important to pass on to younger generations the memory of the role the area played during the Defensive-Patriotic War.
Speaking about the position of the veteran population, Župljanin said that soldiers did not go to war for money, but that it was important for the authorities to continue working to improve their social and material status.
“There can always be more and better support, but it is important that the authorities of Republika Srpska and the Serb people care for their veterans and that an organized system is in place to make life easier for these people,” Župljanin told Srna.
He said the gathering would provide an opportunity to bring together the entire veteran population and demonstrate its unity at a time when Republika Srpska is facing numerous challenges.
The gathering will be held on Sunday, August 30, at the Komnica picnic area near Han Pijesak, beginning at noon.
Plans also include laying the foundation stone for the reconstruction of the Jela Motel near Han Pijesak, which played a crucial role in the struggle for freedom and Republika Srpska.
Source: RTRS
