COM EUFOR Major General Johann Luif, Representative of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia Embassy Mr Aleksandar Krstevski, and the EUFOR Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia’s Senior National Representatives Major Igor Nikchevski, gathered on 12 January 2016 at Monument Park in Camp Butmir to commemorate the death of 11 people from the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia in a helicopter crash 8 years ago.
EUFOR formed a Guard of Honour to pay their respects to the 11 members of the EUFOR contingent from the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia who lost their lives in this accident. During the ceremony candles were lit by COM EUFOR, The Representative of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia Embassy, and the EUFOR Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia’s Senior National Representative.
In his speech, Major General Johann Luif said: “Today we remember with great sadness the loss of 11 members of EUFOR from the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, who tragically lost their lives on 12 January 2008.” He went on to say: “I hope this commemoration in Camp Butmir adequately reflects our appreciation and understanding of the great loss and enormous pain still felt by their families, and your country. It allows us the opportunity to recall their lives, their exceptional spirit, their professionalism, and their contribution to the cause of peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina.”