Commemoration Events for Sarıkamış Campaign's 110th Anniversary
The Ministry of Youth and Sports has announced a series of events scheduled for Jan. 3-5, 2025, to honor the 110th anniversary of the World War I Sarıkamış campaign.
Memorial Walk to Honor Fallen Heroes
Under the theme "You left your mark on this land," a memorial walk will be organized to pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives during the Sarıkamış campaign.
Participation of Youth and Citizens
Youth, citizens, families of fallen soldiers, and veterans are invited to join the commemorative activities to remember and honor the sacrifices made during the historic campaign.
Activities to Remember Sacrifices
The events will feature various activities aimed at commemorating the brave soldiers who fought in the Sarıkamış campaign and highlighting the significance of their sacrifices.
Leadership of Youth and Sports Minister Osman Aşkın Bak
Minister Osman Aşkın Bak will lead the program, starting with a journey to Sarıkamış on the Sarıkamış Express train.
Departure from Ankara Train Station
The journey will commence on Jan. 3 at 8:50 a.m. from Ankara Train Station, with Minister Bak accompanied by young participants and families of fallen soldiers.
Importance of National Unity and Pride
The ministry's commemoration aims to underscore the importance of remembering history and fostering national unity and pride among citizens.
Events of the Commemoration Program
As part of the Sarıkamış Martyrs Commemoration Program, a special dinner will be organized on Jan. 4 to honor the families and veterans.
Snow Sculpture Exhibition and Skiing Performance
Minister Bak will also attend the opening of a "Snow Sculpture Exhibition" at the Sarıkamış Ski Center, followed by a torchlit skiing performance.
Torchlit Walk and Prayer Session
After a Mevlid-i Şerif prayer session, a torchlit walk will take place at July 15 Democracy Martyrs Square, involving the participation of citizens.
Crescent-Star Ceremony and National Anthem
The commemorative walk on Jan. 5 will culminate at the Crescent-Star Ceremony Area, where a ceremony will commence with a moment of silence and the recitation of the National Anthem.
Protocol Speeches and Air Show
Following protocol speeches, the program will feature the Steel Wings Air Show and, weather permitting, a Solo Türk performance at the Crescent-Star Ceremony Area.
Historical Background of Sarıkamış Offensive
The Sarıkamış offensive was launched in response to the Russian forces' advancement towards the Ottoman Empire's eastern borders during World War I.
Significance of Gallipoli Campaign
Despite the Ottoman defeat in Sarıkamış, the subsequent Gallipoli campaign played a pivotal role in paving the way for the Turkish War of Independence under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
