Veterans Day is observed in East Timor every March 3 to honor those who fought for the country's sovereignty during the Indonesian occupation from 1975 to 1999. This public holiday recognizes the sacrifices made by individuals involved in the resistance against Indonesian forces, particularly the Revolutionary Front for an Independent East Timor (FRETILIN), which engaged in guerrilla warfare during the occupation. The day commemorates the memory of those who struggled for independence, including FRETILIN leader Nicolau dos Reis Lobato, who was killed by Indonesian special forces in 1978. In addition to Veterans Day, East Timor also celebrates National Heroes Day to pay tribute to the fallen members of the independence movement. The observance serves as a reminder of the country's tumultuous history and the resilience of its people.