Lawmakers propose marking October 7 as Seda battle day

A group of governing-party lawmakers has proposed adding October 7 to Lithuania’s list of commemorative days as Seda Battle Day, LRT reported. They have registered amendments to the Law on Commemorative Days with the parliamentary secretariat.

The proposal says the designation would honour those killed in the battle, including soldiers and volunteers from the Homeland Protection Unit, raise historical awareness, promote civic and patriotic education, and preserve traditions of defending Lithuania’s statehood and freedom.

On October 7, 1944, near the town of Seda, now in Mažeikiai district, members of the Homeland Protection Unit fought the Red Army as it advanced into Lithuanian territory. The battle is considered one of the last episodes of organised armed Lithuanian resistance to the Soviet occupation during the Second World War.

Many of those who fought were young volunteers and former Lithuanian army officers and soldiers. Commemorations are held annually, and 2024 marked 80 years since the battle. Lithuania’s Law on Commemorative Days currently lists more than 100 days.