The Second World War was one of the most shocking experiences in modern history. In six years, it claimed nearly 60 million people died, including 40 million civilians and 20 million soldiers. And to honor them, especially those Americans who died in the war, a traditional memorial service is held at the American aviator monument near Konopiště castle.

“We are gathered here on the occasion of the memorial service for the nine martyred and shot American airmen who were shot down right at the end of the Second World War over the Benešov training area, which was the training area of ​​the SS Troops,” explained Deputy Governor of Central Bohemia Region, Pavel Pavlík (ODS).

Although almost 78 years have passed since the end of the Second World War in 1945, this tragic event is still important to remember, because those who do not know the past are bound to repeat it.

“It is always important to identify evil that appears somewhere and is always there somewhere. It is important to know where it is, it is necessary to name it and it is necessary to fight it in advance, because once it grows into a war-like inconvenience in Ukraine, it will be too late,” warned the deputy governor of Central Bohemia Region, Jiří Snížek (Pirate).

The commemorative events have been held since the 1990s. Immediately after the Velvet Revolution, a monument to the American pilot was erected in the crypt of Konopiště castle. The main organizer is traditionally the city of Benešov with support from the Central Bohemian Region.

“Regions routinely participate in this event. At least with the American squadron in mind, we laid a wreath and a short speech was included,” said Pavel Pavlík (ODS), deputy governor of the Central Bohemian Region.

At the military event, ancient military equipment and vehicles used in the Second World War were also exhibited.

“There are members of the military history club here, we see American equipment here. The main actor will be the Czech Republic Army, which will be in charge of the organization and laying of the wreath,” concluded Deputy Governor of Central Bohemia Region, Pavel Pavlík (ODS).

The regular act of reverence in the crypt of Konopiště castle shows once again that, even in the present day, we still need to remember what our ancestors did and sacrificed for us and our freedom.