Past Bravery, Long Lasting Honor: SA L’Avenue’s Commemoration of National Heroes Day
Last November 10, Sampoerna Academy-L’Avenue celebrated one of the most important dates in Indonesian history: National Heroes Day. This celebration is aimed at instilling nationalism and unity among Indonesians, especially commemorating the people who stood and fought for our country.
Although Indonesia proclaimed its independence on August 17, 1945, freedom was far from secure. Allied forces arrived shortly after, officially to disarm the Japanese and repatriate prisoners of war, but also with the intention of restoring Dutch colonial rule. Tensions escalated across the country, particularly in Surabaya, a city that became a central stage for the struggle to defend independence.
On September 19, at the Yamato Hotel, a defining moment unfolded when a group of Indonesian youths tore the blue stripe from a Dutch flag, raising a pure red-and-white banner. It is an act that ignited the spirit of resistance among the people of Surabaya. This event became one of the catalysts for the major confrontation that followed.
The conflict culminated in the Battle of Surabaya on November 10, 1945. Thousands of fighters, youths, and civilians stood against British and Dutch forces. Bung Tomo’s powerful radio broadcasts further strengthened the resolve of Surabayan fighters, who pledged to defend their freedom at all costs. The battle, which lasted for three weeks, resulted in significant losses for Indonesia, yet it demonstrated to the world the unwavering determination of the Indonesian people to protect their sovereignty.
For SA L’Avenue, the celebration of the National Heroes Day is not just to commemorate the past but also to revive the spirit of the heroes into the students.
“I think the most important thing about heroes day is to respect and remember what our heroes did to fight for our freedom, some sacrificed themselves” Thurayya (Grade 7) commented when asked of the importance of National Heroes day, “and to me the another important thing about heroes day is to honor the sacrifices of those who fought for our nation's freedom and independence.” he added.
During the celebration at Sampoerna Academy-L’Avenue, students of Grade 3-6 along with teachers and staff gathered to take part in the National Heroes Day ceremony for its flag-raising, national anthem, and a moment of silence to honor our heroes.
National Heroes Day serves as a powerful reminder that a better future can be achieved if we are willing to work hard for it, and we practice these values on a daily basis without realizing. While it feels like it’s not much, it leads us one small step closer to the dream we want to achieve, and with every small step we come together in unity, we reinforce our commitment to building a bright future for our beloved nation.