The First Atatürk Monument Unveiled in the U.S. on Atatürk Memorial Day!

Dear ATA-DC Members and Friends,

Every year, on November 10th, the Turkish nation honors Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, “Father of the Turks” and one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century.

75 years ago, the founder of the modern Turkish Republic and the country’s first president passed away. Today, he was praised with commemoration ceremonies in Turkey, the United States and around the world.

Today, was also an historic moment for the Turkish American community in Washington, DC. The Atatürk Society of America (ASA), working with sculptor Jeffrey Hall, unveiled a full-size bronze statue of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk at Sheridan Circle. This is the first public monument of Atatürk in the United States. Around 200 guests witnessed the unveiling of the statue and showed their respect with a moment of silence. ATA-DC board members congratulated ASA President Bülent Atalay, Chairman Hüdai Yavalar and treasurer Mirat Yavalar for their efforts to recognize the historic achievements of our beloved Atatürk.

ATA-DC Board of Directors remember Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk with great respect and gratitude. We will never forget his accomplishments to liberate our country, establishing the secular, democratic and modern Republic of Turkey. We will protect the values he believed in and keep working towards a brighter future.

“Peace at Home, Peace in the World.” – Mustafa Kemal Atatürk