On 5 June 2026, at the barracks “NH Kuzman Josifovski-Pitu” in Tetovo, a ceremony was held to mark the 25th anniversary since the deaths of security forces servicemen from the Tetovo Garrison who lost their lives during the 2001 conflict.
On this occasion, a memorial service was held, and fresh flowers were laid at the memorial dedicated to the fallen heroes. By this act, members of the Army from the Tetovo Garrison honored the memory of Staff Sergeant 1st class Isak Rufati and professional soldiers Nikolche Kitanov, Blashko Tolev, Vlatko Milenkovski, Blagoja Siljanovski, and Pece Matichevski.
Addressing the attendees, the Commander of the Tetovo Garrison, Lieutenant Colonel Mile Stanoevski, emphasized that the sacrifice, courage, and patriotism of the fallen servicemen remain enduring values and a lasting obligation for present and future generations. He emphasized that the memory of those who lost their lives in defense of the homeland continues to serve as a shining example of dedication to the nation and its citizens.
The commemoration was attended by representatives of the Tetovo Garrison Command and the First Infantry Brigade, representatives of the Municipality of Tetovo, representatives of Veterans and War Veterans with disabilities from the Brotherhood 2001 Association, representatives of the Association of National Liberation War Veterans from Tetovo and Gostivar, OROM, the Association of Military and Police Veterans, the Association of Persons with Work-Related Disabilities of Tetovo, the Tetovo Pensioners’ Association, the Tetovo City Museum, as well as family members of the fallen servicemen.
By honoring their memory and legacy, the Army reaffirms its commitment to preserving traditions, safeguarding history, and commemorating with dignity those who gave their lives in defense of the state.
