National Army Remembers Afghan War Victims

Chisinau, February 15, 2013 — National Army service members commemorated the victims of Afghan War by laying flowers at “Feciorilor Patriei — sfinta amintire” memorial from Riscani sector of the capital city and a concert at the Center of Military History and Culture of the National Army.

First, the National Army service members laid flowers at “Feciorilor Patriei — sfinta amintire” Memorial from Riscani sector of Chisinau. Minister of Defense Vitalie Marinuta said the day of February 15 is a sign of gratitude a honor of military heroism. Thus, each National Army service member should respect the veterans of Afghan War. “Wherever our soldiers’ graves are, at home or in a foreign country, it is our duty to honor their courage and pray for their souls to rest in peace”, Minister Marinuta said. The commemoration events continued with the awarding ceremony of war veterans at the National Army Center of Military History and Culture. Thus, war veterans were awarded Service to Fatherland 2^nd class and For Excellent Service in the National Army 1^st class medals, as well as diplomas of honor. At the end of the event, a concert was held with the participation of the National Army band.

The commemoration day of soldiers dead in Afghan war marked February 15 was declared as a holiday based on a Government decision adopted at the initiative of the Afghan War Union consisting of over eight thousand members.

The official data show that about 12 500 Moldovan citizens participated in the 1979 and 1989 Afghan War. 301 people were killed, four were declared missing and 257 were injured.

The withdrawal of Soviet troops from Afghan started in 1987. The last units were evacuated in February 1989.