Database of fallen soldiers of World War I for the Slovak Republic territory
The First World War, also known as the Great War, broke out on July 28, 1914 and lasted until November 11, 1918, and had a major impact on many countries, including the territory of the present-day Slovak Republic. The pretext for starting the war was the assassination of Archduke and heir to the throne Franz Ferdinand d'Este. Austria-Hungary subsequently declared war on Serbia, triggering a chain reaction leading to the war of two great coalitions, which resulted in the war spreading across Europe within a single month. The Slovak territory, which at that time belonged to Austria-Hungary, provided a large number of soldiers for various military regiments. These soldiers fought on various fronts and many of them lost their lives during this devastating war. This page focuses on fallen soldiers from the territory of the Slovak Republic, their service in various regiments and on the fronts where they fought.
Mobilization
After the outbreak of World War I in 1914, a large part of the population of Austria-Hungary, including the territory of Slovakia, was mobilized. Soldiers from this area were primarily assigned to Austro-Hungarian regiments, which were divided among various fronts in Europe.
Slovak soldiers in various regiments
Slovak soldiers were mainly assigned to the following regiments:
- a) Infantry regiments
- 14th Infantry Regiment: This regiment was known as the “Košice Regiment.” Soldiers from the territory of Slovakia served in this regiment and fought on the Eastern Front, where they participated in battles in Galicia and Galicia.
- 71st Infantry Regiment: This regiment was based in Bratislava. It served on various fronts, including the Italian front, where it saw heavy fighting.
- 22nd Infantry Regiment: This regiment had its base in Nové Zámky. Soldiers from this regiment fought on the Italian Front and also on the Eastern Front.
- b) Artillery regiments
- 8th Field Artillery Regiment: This regiment was deployed on various fronts, including the Western Front. The artillerymen from this regiment played a key role in supporting infantry units.
- 1st K.U.K. Mountain Artillery Regiment: Served on the Italian front and was responsible for heavy fighting in mountainous areas.
Main fronts and battles
- a) Eastern Front
On the Eastern Front, which included areas of present-day Poland, Ukraine, and Belarus, Slovak soldiers fought in various battles, including the Battle of Lemberg (Lviv) and the Battle of Zborov.
- b) Italian Front
The Italian front was known for heavy fighting in the Dolomites and on the Isonzo River. Slovak soldiers participated in several offensives and defensive actions.
- c) Western Front
Although a smaller number of Slovak soldiers fought on the Western Front, where they encountered French and British forces, they contributed to various combat operations in the Alsace and Artois regions.
Losses and casualties
The same fate befell many Slovak soldiers who died on the fronts. The exact number of fallen soldiers is difficult to determine, but it is estimated that thousands of Slovak soldiers died during the war, including those who died from injuries, disease, and in captivity.
Memorial sites and monuments
After the war, many towns and cities in Slovakia decided to honor the memory of fallen soldiers. Monuments and memorial plaques are located all over Slovakia and commemorate the victims of World War I. In some places, regular memorial events are held.
Conclusion
The fallen soldiers from the territory of the Slovak Republic during the First World War played a significant role in the battles on various fronts. Their courage and sacrifices are part of a rich historical legacy that the country commemorates through monuments and commemorative events. Their service and sacrifices are still the subject of study and respect, which helps to understand the extent of suffering and sacrifice during this global conflict.