January 13 marks 34 years since the Soviet attack on Lithuania’s new reclaimed statehood, its institutions and most importantly its people, a day that remains etched in the nation's memory. On January 13, 1991, Soviet troops, tanks, and special forces stormed the country, but thousands of Lithuanians, armed only with unity, songs, and flags, stood as human shields around the Parliament, TV Tower, Radio and Television Building and other strategic objects in Lithuania. In the face of brutal aggression, 14 lives were tragically lost, and hundreds were injured, but the courage of the people ensured Lithuania's dream of independence endured.