In the Abai region, a ceremony was held to unveil a monument dedicated to the firefighters and forestry workers who gave their lives fighting forest fires. The monument is located near the village of Mikhailovka, not far from the Kamyshenskoye forestry.
The author of the monument is sculptor Nurbol Kaliyev. The eight-metre bronze monument, set on a granite plinth, commemorates the memory of the brave forestry workers from the ‘Semey Ormany’ Reserve, who fearlessly stepped forward to face the fiery element.
Attending the opening ceremony were the akim of the Abai region, Nurlan Urankhayev, the chairman of the regional maslikhat, Kuanysh Suleimenov, relatives of the deceased forestry workers, representatives of state bodies, and the local community.
As Nurlan Urankhayev noted, the monument will serve as a reminder of how fragile human life can be, and of the importance of looking after one another.
‘Today we have gathered here to honour the memory of those who, at the cost of their own lives, selflessly fulfilled their professional and human duty. Bowing our heads and paying our respects, we unveil this monument – a symbol of our deepest sorrow and boundless respect.
Showing courage and heroism, our countrymen did not flinch before the fiery element and did everything possible. They served their country faithfully, carrying out their work professionally. Eternal memory to our heroes, who bravely stepped forward to face danger, showed courage and heroism, and remained faithful to their duty and chosen profession to the very end.’, said the head of the region.
Speeches were also given by relatives of the deceased forestry workers. One of them, Aray Amirkhanova, noted that the monument symbolises a tribute of respect to the heroes. She also expressed gratitude to Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for the support the state provided to the families of the deceased.
‘Since those tragic events, we have never stopped feeling the support of the state. Each of us has suffered an irreplaceable loss: some lost a spouse, some a son, some a brother or a loved one. However, we have shared this grief together with the people. We have received all the necessary help, for which we express our sincere gratitude. Today, a majestic monument has been erected. I believe this is yet another expression of respect for those we have lost.’, shared Aray Amirkhanova.
It is anticipated that the monument will become an eternal symbol of courage and devotion, and will remind people of those who sacrificed their lives for the safety of their compatriots and nature.