Azerbaijan Observes May 9th as Day of Victory over Fascism
Baku, The Gulf Observer: Today, on May 9th, Azerbaijan solemnly commemorates the 79th anniversary of the victory over German fascism, according to reports from various media outlets. This significant milestone is marked as an official state holiday in Azerbaijan, with May 9th designated as a non-working day across the country.
The historical context of this victory traces back to the dark days of World War II, the bloodiest conflict in human history, which began with Nazi Germany’s occupation of Poland on September 1, 1939, under the operation code-named Barbarossa. The war escalated further when Germany launched an invasion of the Soviet Union, of which Azerbaijan was a part, on June 22, 1941. It culminated in the momentous events of May 9, 1945, when the flag of fascism was lowered over the Reichstag building in Berlin, and the flag of the USSR was raised in its place.
Azerbaijan played a pivotal role in this global struggle, with 660,000 Azerbaijanis actively participating in the war effort. Azerbaijani divisions bravely fought from the Caucasus to Berlin, with approximately 130 Azerbaijanis earning the prestigious title of Hero of the Soviet Union. Additionally, 30 individuals were honored with the Order of Glory, while 170,000 compatriots received various orders and medals of the USSR in recognition of their valor and sacrifice.
The annals of Azerbaijani history shine with the names of illustrious figures who distinguished themselves during this tumultuous period. Heroes such as Hazi Aslanov, Israfil Mammadov, Aslan Vezirov, Adil Guliyev, Ziya Bunyadov, Garay Asadov, Huseynbala Aliyev, Gafur Mammadov, Melik Maharramov, Mehdi Huseynzade, along with generals Mahmud Abilov, Akim Abbasov, Tarlan Aliyarbeyov, and Hajibaba Zeynalov, are etched in golden letters for their unparalleled bravery and unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom.
Moreover, Azerbaijani oil played a crucial role in sustaining the Soviet war effort. In 1941 alone, Azerbaijan produced 23.5 million tonnes of oil, accounting for a staggering 71.4% of the total oil production in the USSR. Over the course of the war, Azerbaijani oil workers contributed a total of 75 million tonnes of oil, 22 million tonnes of gasoline, and various other vital petroleum products to the war effort, underscoring the nation’s indispensable contribution to the Allied victory.
As Azerbaijan pauses to reflect on this momentous occasion, the legacy of courage, sacrifice, and resilience exhibited by its people during World War II continues to serve as a beacon of inspiration for future generations, reaffirming the nation’s unwavering commitment to peace, freedom, and justice.
