The 34th Day of Slovenian Independence and Unity at the Slovenian Embassy in Washington

Obeležitev 34. dneva samostojnosti in enotnosti Republike Slovenije v Washingtonu

The photography exhibition Love in Us is dedicated to Lipizzaner horses and pays special tribute to American General George S. Patton, a great horse enthusiast. During World War II, through his Operation Cowboy, he saved the Lipizzaner breed and ensured their return to the Lipica Stud Farm in Slovenia.

At the event, the Ambassador emphasized the importance of Slovenian unity, achieved through the plebiscite on Slovenian independence, which resulted in the formation of the Slovenian state. He highlighted that Lipizzaner horses are one of Slovenia's most important national cultural treasures, and that American history and tradition, along with their deep admiration for these horses, made it possible to preserve one of the oldest cultural horse breeds in Europe. This has allowed the Lipica Stud Farm to continue its mission, which began back in 1580.

"Having spent my childhood in the very region where the Lipica Stud Farm is located, it brings me particular joy to shed light on this part of history with gratitude alongside our American friends. American guests are always welcome in Slovenia and Lipica. I will strive to ensure that, just as the Queen of the United Kingdom did, the President of the United States will one day visit and enjoy the beauty of Slovenia, the Karst, Lipica, and our Lipizzaners," the Ambassador added.

Operation Cowboy was elaborated on by the guest speaker, Dr. Peter Knight, Director of Historical Studies at the U.S. Army Center of Military History.

An excellent musical program was provided by violinist Agata Miklavc, concertmaster at Georgetown Chorale, artistic director of the Georgetown Chamber Orchestra in Washington, DC, and a member of the Charleston Symphony Orchestra, and pianist Jason Solonias. They performed Intermezzo Romantique by Slovenian composer Lucijan Marija Škerjanc.