Klapiooperatsioone

Klapiooperatsioone, also known as the Klapio operation, was a significant event during the Estonian War of Independence in 1918. It refers to the successful defense of the Estonian capital, Tallinn, from a Soviet Red Army offensive. The operation took place from February 28 to March 1, 1918, and was a pivotal moment in the war, demonstrating the Estonian military's resilience and determination.

The Soviet Red Army, led by the Bolsheviks, launched a major offensive against Estonia, aiming to establish a communist regime in the Baltic region. The Estonian forces, under the command of Johan Laidoner, were outnumbered and outgunned, but they managed to hold their ground in Tallinn. The city's strategic importance, combined with the Estonian military's fierce resistance, made it a crucial target for the Soviets.

The Klapiooperatsioone was named after the Klapio district of Tallinn, where the heaviest fighting took place. The Estonian forces, despite their inferior numbers, managed to repel the Soviet assault, inflicting significant losses on the Red Army. The operation was a turning point in the war, as it halted the Soviet advance and allowed the Estonians to regroup and strengthen their defenses.

The Klapiooperatsioone is remembered as a symbol of Estonian resistance and national pride. It is celebrated annually in Estonia as a national holiday, known as the Defense of Tallinn Day. The event is commemorated through various ceremonies and military parades, honoring the bravery and sacrifice of the Estonian soldiers who fought in the operation.