National Heroes Day is observed in East Timor on December 31 each year to honor those who sacrificed their lives for the country's independence. This public holiday commemorates the struggles against Indonesian occupation, which lasted for over two decades and resulted in the deaths of between 90,000 and 200,000 people due to violence and enforced starvation. Initially, the day was celebrated on December 7, marking the start of the occupation, but it was later moved to December 31. The National Council of Maubere Resistance and the Revolutionary Front for an Independent East Timor (FRETILIN) were key organizations that fought for independence and lost many members during the struggle. On this day, the memories of these individuals and their contributions to East Timor's fight for freedom are honored.