Today, 20 December, 2025, at the “Boris Trajkovski” Sports Center in Skopje, the 25th Memorial Futsal Tournament was held in honor of the fallen defenders from 2001 and 2015, members of the Macedonian security forces, organized by the “Heroes of Macedonia 2001–2015” association and the Ministry of Defense.
The tournament was opened by the Minister of Defense, Vlado Misajlovski, who, in the presence of the Chief of the General Staff of the Army, Major General Sashko Lafchiski, the Minister of Interior Panche Toshkovski, and the President of the association Vlado Stojanovski, emphasized to those present the sacrifice made by the defenders for Macedonia. He noted that at crucial moments for the country they did not ask how difficult it was, but how necessary it was, adding that the memory of the defenders will not be forgotten and that their sacrifice for the fatherland will always be cherished.
The President of the association “Heroes of Macedonia 2001–2015,” Vlado Stojanovski, in his address confirmed the selfless sacrifice made by these heroes, emphasizing that they will live forever in the collective consciousness of the Macedonian people.
The Minister of Interior, Panche Toshkovski, also addressed those present, pointing out that their deeds live on and will continue to live as a legacy and an example in the professional and ethical conduct of every member of the security institutions.
Sixteen teams composed of members of the Army, the Ministry of Defense, and the Ministry of Interior participated in the memorial tournament. Through their presence and sporting engagement, they sent a clear message that the Macedonian defenders who laid down their lives in defense of the fatherland will never be forgotten.
