On March 16, a significant event took place in Riga and Lestene to honor Latvian legionnaires who fell during World War II. The march commenced at 11 am from St. John's Church, proceeding to the Freedom Monument where participants laid flowers in remembrance. This annual tradition saw many members of the National Alliance party joining in, while security was ensured by a robust police presence, including dog handlers and special task unit officers to maintain order during the proceedings.

The atmosphere of the march was marked by music, with participants singing popular songs favored by the legionnaires, and many carried national flags of Latvia and Estonia. Additionally, attendees included representatives from World War II veteran organizations from Spain and Slovakia, highlighting the event's broader significance. A poignant moment occurred when a former legionnaire, unable to participate in the march due to health constraints, awaited the procession at the monument. Supported by fellow attendees, he managed to lay flowers in memory of his fallen comrades, underscoring the event's emotional weight.

The gathering concluded with participants honoring the legacy of the legionnaires, a reflection of national pride intertwined with historical remembrance. This commemoration serves not only to remember those who served but also acts as a reminder of Latvia’s complex history during the war, fostering discussions on national identity and remembrance practices. Such events are essential for the preservation of collective memory in Latvia, emphasizing the ongoing impact of history on contemporary society.