La commémoration de la mort en martyrs des colonels Amirouche et Si El Haouès, une occasion de rappeler les sacrifices des Chouhada et de préserver la mémoire
Commemoration of Colonels Amirouche and Si El Haouès: Preserving National Memory
The recent commemoration of the fallen heroes, Colonels Amirouche (1926-1959) and Si El Haouès (1923-1959), held in M’Sila, served as a poignant reminder of the significant sacrifices made by the Martyrs and Moudjahidine during Algeria’s struggle for independence. Hocine Abdessettar, the director of the National Center for Studies and Research on Popular Resistance, the National Movement, and the 1st November 1954 Revolution, emphasized the importance of these events in preserving national memory and instilling a sense of historical awareness among younger generations.
During the ceremony, which marked the 66th anniversary of their martyrdom, Abdessettar highlighted the essential role that history plays in safeguarding the youth from contemporary threats. He stated, "Today’s youth need to be shielded against all the dangers surrounding them, which can only be achieved by connecting them to the history and memory of our Revolution." He further noted that the exemplary sacrifices of the Martyrs serve as powerful sources of inspiration for the younger generation.
Abdessettar also commemorated the bravery and heroism of Colonels Amirouche and Si El Haouès, particularly during the Battle of Djebel Thamer on March 28, 1959. In a confrontation against more advanced French occupation forces, the colonels and their companions displayed remarkable valor before ultimately making the ultimate sacrifice.
The ceremony took place at the Chouhada cemetery in the Sidi M’hamed municipality, where Abdessettar was present to pay his respects alongside local civil and military authorities, members of the revolutionary family, civil society representatives, and citizens. This gathering served as a powerful act of remembrance for the Martyrs of this significant battle in Algeria’s history.
A notable aspect of the day was the inauguration of a museum dedicated to Colonels Amirouche and Si El Haouès, following the completion of expansion works. This museum, located near the monument commemorating the Battle of Djebel Thamer, is aimed at fostering remembrance and educating visitors about the heroic struggles during the revolution.
Additionally, the event recognized the contributions of several individuals, including Mohamed Khezari, the secretary of the Wilaya of the National Organization of Moudjahidine (ONM), and the Moudjahid Djemouai Benoudina. The family of Martyr Mohamed Bendjeghidel was also honored for their sacrifices. The commemorative ceremony concluded with the presentation of awards to the top three participants in a national competition focused on the biographies of Colonels Amirouche and Si El Haouès, an initiative organized by the Ministry of Moudjahidine in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.
The activities not only served to commemorate these national heroes but also aimed to strengthen the connection between current and future generations and Algeria’s revolutionary heritage. Abdessettar’s call to remember the sacrifices of the Martyrs echoes the broader imperative to preserve the values of courage and resilience that underpin Algeria’s national identity. Through education and remembrance, the hope is to foster a greater understanding of the struggle for independence, helping to unify and inspire the nation, especially its youth, as they face modern challenges.
In summary, the commemoration was a significant event that highlighted the sacrifices made by Algeria’s freedom fighters and reinforced the importance of historical awareness in shaping the nation’s identity. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing responsibility to honor and remember those who fought for independence, ensuring that their legacy continues to inspire future generations.
