Remembrance Day of the Latvian Legionnaires: A Controversial Commemoration
On March 16th, a memorial event took place in Riga, Latvia, commemorating Latvian legionnaires who fought in World War II. Approximately 200 people participated in the gathering, which included a memorial service at St. John’s Church, a procession to the Freedom Monument, and the laying of flowers. The day remains unofficial, with individuals paying their respects on a private initiative.
Historical Context: The Latvian Legion
The Remembrance Day of the Latvian Legionnaires (Leģionāru piemiņas diena), similarly known as Legionnaire Day (Leģionāru diena) or simply 16 March (16. Marts), honors soldiers of the Latvian Legion, a Waffen-SS unit. The Legion was formed as combat units of the Waffen-SS following the Soviet occupation of Latvia in 1940 and the subsequent Nazi occupation in 1943 [1].
The 15th (1st Latvian) and 19th (2nd Latvian) Waffen Grenadier Divisions of the SS fought alongside each other for the first and only time against the Red Army between March 16-18, 1944, a key event commemorated on this day [1].
Controversy and Differing Perspectives
The commemoration of the Latvian Legionnaires is highly controversial. The European Commission against Racism and Intolerance, Russia, Canada, and Jewish organizations, including the Simon Wiesenthal Center, have criticized the remembrance day due to the Legion’s association with Nazi Germany [1].
Yet, some argue that the Legion was a military unit fighting against the Soviet Union, and that no members have been convicted of war crimes [1]. Perspectives on the Legion vary, with some believing its members fought for an independent Latvia, others viewing them as fascist collaborators, and still others considering them victims of circumstance [1].
Official Recognition and Current Status
From 1998 to 2000, the Saeima (Latvian Parliament) officially recognized March 16th as a “Remembrance Day for Latvian soldiers.” [1] Currently, it is not an official remembrance day, and commemorations are carried out on a private basis [2].
Recent Events
This year’s event, held on March 16, 2026, proceeded without incident, with a significant police presence, including K-9 units and the State Police Special Assignment Battalion, maintaining order. [3]
A documentary film produced by LTV explores the historical context of the Latvian Legion and the complex questions surrounding its legacy, asking, “Should we honor or condemn them, maintain silent or search for excuses?”