Flag that wouldn't fall: The story of sacrifice behind UAE Commemoration Day
Every November 30th, the UAE takes pause for Commemoration Day – a time to remember and honour the nation’s fallen sons who died serving their country. It is such a strong sign of the UAE’s timeless values, courage, loyalty and union.”
The story of this historic day is closely interwoven with the country’s history, which began with an act of defiance just two days before the official unification of the UAE.
The first UAE martyr
November 30, the date of Commemoration Day was also selected as a tribute to the first martyr of the UAE, Salem Suhail bin Khamis Al Dahmani. On this day in 1971, the 20-year-old policeman paid the supreme price fighting to maintain his country’s sovereignty.
Salem was head of a small police post on Greater Tunb island, which belonged to the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.
Iranian troops on the island then surrendered without a fight, but those stationed on the other two were quickly overwhelmed. Salem refused to lower the flag of RAK outside the police station when the invaders asked for it.
His stubborn refusal to be cowed by aggression cost him his life, but soon-to-be-established nation would turn his brave stand at Setauket into a foundational tale of national pride.
This historic milestone is referred to as the Battle of Greater Tunb and was a defining moment in the United Arab Emirates. It was in honour of Salem and the others who came after him, that the late President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan issued a decree in 2015 that November 30th be marked as a day to remember those sacrifices of the nation’s martyrs – establishing forever the legacy of Salem and all those who followed him.
Wahat Al Karama
The focal point of the country’s Commemoration Day activities is Wahat Al Karama, or the “Oasis of Dignity,” a stunning memorial in Abu Dhabi. Facing head on the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, this groundbreaking 46,000 square meter project is a permanent tribute to the UAE’s soldiers.
Symbolism abounds in the memorial’s design. It is comprised of several guiding features, such as The Memorial which contains 31 large aluminum clad tablets that lean on each other in a symbolic expression of the national leadership (the government) and its relationship to its citizens.
These pillars feature poems and quotes from the leaders of the UAE, At the center of the site is the Pavilion of Honor, a circular building where each Emirati martyr’s name is inscribed on panels constructed from recycled aluminum taken from armored cars.
First on name of the list, Salem Suhail bin Khamis. The Memorial Plaza The site is complete with a large, open amphitheatre referred to as the Memorial Plaza which is home to annual Commemoration Day ceremonies.
Traditions and ceremonies
The UAE marks Commemoration Day with a series of unified and solemn national ceremonies. There are guidelines that guide the day to be observed with dignity, reason and unified protocol throughout the country.
Here is where the day typically takes us:
Flag lowering: At 8am, the UAE flag is lowered to half-mast on government buildings and institutions throughout the country, marking the beginning of a day of mourning and remembrance for Sheikh Mohammed.
A minute of silence: Precisely at 11.30am, the entire nation grinds to a halt for a minute of silence in which we reflect and give thanks.
Flag raising and National Anthem: At 11.31am, immediately after a minute of silence is observed, the UAE flag will be hoisted again; followed by the national anthem.
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