The Spirit of Heroism in Hero’s Day (10 November 2024)

Heroes' Day is an important and historic day for the Indonesian people. The meaning of Heroes'
Day for the younger generation is important to understand so that it becomes a reference for
national and state of life.

The meaning of commemorating Heroes' Day is to remember and honor the struggles of heroes
in the past. This fighting spirit made them able to fight to expel the invaders.

The history of Heroes' Day refers to the devastating battle in Surabaya on November, 10 th 1945.
The war lasted for approximately 3 weeks and claimed tens of thousands of victims.
This battle was the first war between the Indonesian people and foreign troops after
independence. And this war was one of the biggest and toughest battles in the history of the
Indonesian revolution against the colonialists.

As a result of the battle, the city of Surabaya suddenly became “hell”. As many as 20,000
Surabaya people became victims and 1,600 British soldiers were killed, missing and injured.

Apart from that, around 150,000 people were forced to leave the city of Surabaya. This big war
lasted for approximately 3 weeks and caused huge losses.

Even so, the burning and never giving up fighting spirit of Surabaya's youth is the basis for the
city of Surabaya to be remembered as the City of Heroes. November 10 th is celebrated every year
as Heroes' Day as a form of appreciation for the services and sacrifices of the youth of Surabaya.

This story not only shows the history of the country, but also teaches Indonesian children
examples, such as honesty, persistence, never giving up, and carrying out obligations and rights.

Children and youth can also be introduced to the meaning of Heroes' Day from everyday life.
Such as maintaining independence by studying diligently, achieving achievements in fields of
interest, helping friends who are in trouble, and getting used to saying thank you, sorry, and
helping others.

Teaching from an early age about discipline is necessary as well, for example, going to school on
time, doing homework at home, teaching them to queue to buy food, and so on.

By teaching this in an early age, the young generations will have the spirit of heroism in
themselves, not only once in a year, but in every day’s life.

Ms Monika
Primary English teacher Modernhill