Within the scope of the 111nd anniversary of the Victory of Çanakkale, Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Atatürk Research and Application Center (ATAUM) and EMU Atatürk Ideology Club (ADK) jointly organized a commemoration event titled “18 March Commemoration of Çanakkale Victory and Martyrs’ Day”. Said event took place on Wednesday, 18 March 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at Rector’s Office building.
Present during the event were EMU Board of Trustees (VYK) President Şemi Bora, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, EMU VYK Members Turan Büyükyılmaz and Özdinç Akdel, EMU Vice Rector for Academic Affairs Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe, EMU Vice Rector for Promotion and Institutional Communication Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, academic and administrative staff, and students.
The ceremony commenced with a moment of silence followed by the National Anthem.
Speaking at the event, EMU ADK President Görkem Topçu highlighted that, during the Battle of Çanakkale, the Turkish nation demonstrated to the world its unwavering commitment to independence, declaring “Çanakkale is impassable” despite all adversities. Topçu noted that this historic legacy—shaped by the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and the selfless sacrifices of the Mehmetçik—is not merely a victory, but also a profound responsibility to be conveyed to future generations. He also paid tribute to Prof. Dr. İlber Ortaylı, who recently passed away, emphasizing the significance of cultivating historical awareness. Stressing that it is essential not only to know the past but also to truly understand and preserve it, Topçu underlined that the youth of the Republic must keep this spirit alive in all areas and continue to follow in the footsteps of Atatürk.
“Spirit of Unity and Solidarity Revived with This Victory”
In his speech, Dr. Devran Kaya from EMU-ATAUM underlined that Çanakkale was not only a military achievement but also a pivotal moment that reshaped the course of world history. He noted that, as one of the most critical fronts of the First World War, Çanakkale became the setting where the major powers’ efforts to sideline the Ottoman Empire ultimately failed due to the determined resistance of the Turkish army. Dr. Kaya described this victory as a powerful reflection of the nation’s devotion to its homeland, its spirit of sacrifice, and its determination to preserve independence. Emphasizing the decisive influence of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s leadership and military genius, Dr. Kaya referred to Atatürk’s well-known command during the battle—“I am not ordering you to attack, I am ordering you to die”—as a historic expression of determination that has endured through time. Pointing out that Çanakkale laid the foundations for the path leading to the War of Independence, Dr. Kaya stated that the spirit of unity and solidarity was revived through this victory, ultimately paving the way for the establishment of the Republic of Türkiye. He concluded by honoring all martyrs and veterans—especially Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk—with respect, gratitude, and remembrance.
One of the Most Powerful Symbols of Extraordinary Sacrifice, Perseverance and Heroism
In his speech delivered on the occasion of the 111th anniversary of the March 18 Çanakkale Victory, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç highlighted that Çanakkale remains one of the most powerful symbols of the Turkish nation’s extraordinary sacrifice, perseverance, and heroism in defense of its homeland. He underlined that 18 March 1915 should be regarded not only as a military success but also as a crucial milestone in the nation’s pursuit of independence and freedom. Prof. Dr. Kılıç further emphasized that this remarkable victory—secured against powerful colonial empires with formidable naval strength—sent a profound message to the world. He noted that this historic resistance, which demonstrated the strength of unity and solidarity, also laid the foundation for the process leading to the War of Independence under the leadership and military brilliance of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Acknowledging the meaningful contributions of Turkish Cypriots to this struggle, Prof. Dr. Kılıç concluded by honoring all martyrs and veterans, particularly Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, with deep respect and gratitude.
The event, which also featured an exhibition of various munitions used in Çanakkale, concluded with a musical performance by Deniz Özkalay and Yiğit Çakır, students of the Music Teaching Program at the EMU Faculty of Education, Department of Fine Arts Education.
