In November 1941, Serbian forces attacked Pazar i Ri. The Rugova forces under the command of Sak Fazli and Sali Rama also came to their aid. Rrusti of Sadri Elezit (our great-grandfather) by order of the commander united forces from different regions. Major Kolë Bibë Mirakaj appointed Sak Fazli as the leader of the war for the protection of the border from Montenegro, addressing him with these words:

“Since you are a descendant of the well-known Sali Jaha, the bannerman from Rugova and you have proven yourself as a worthy fighter for the national cause, we express our trust in you for organizing and leading the war for the protection of the border from Montenegro”.

The Drenica forces were led by Miftar and Cenë Bannerman, Shaban Polluzha, Mehmet Gradica, etc. The forces of Peja and the surrounding area were led by Kurt Abazi, the standard bearer of Radac, Mulla Zekë Bërdyna, Adem the standard bearer of Vranoc, Demë Ali Pozhari, etc.

The volunteer forces numbered over 6,000. In one of the battles fought against the Serbs in Pazar i Ri, the standard bearer Sak Fazlia was wounded in the leg, but he did not let go of the flag.

Text by Veton Rugova. Rare and corrected photograph.