One of the key projects Mikov is involved in is the War Veteran Project, launched in 2019 in collaboration with the Military Solidarity Fund. Its mission is not only to symbolically honor the service of Czech soldiers but also to provide practical assistance to those who have found themselves in difficult life situations as a result of their service. Every knife from the War Veteran edition is thus not only a high-quality Czech product but also a direct contribution to a good cause— 300 Kč from each knife sold goes to the Military Solidarity Fund.
Thanks to your interest and support, we have managed to donate more than half a million crowns to the fund since the project began. These funds are used to help wounded soldiers, the families of the fallen, and those who have lost their health or ability to work due to their service. The Solidarity Fund, established by the Ministry of Defense, provides rapid and effective financial support where it is needed most.
The Poppy—A Symbol of Respect
The poppy is inextricably linked to Veterans Day; it is an international symbol commemorating the victims of war and the courage of those who served. In the Czech Republic, the traditional public “Poppy of the Czech Republic” fundraising campaign runs from October 29 to November 11 . Poppies can be purchased at EuroOil and RobinOil gas stations or at Luxor bookstores.
Another new feature is the option to contribute via a digital symbol— the DiGiMÁK. This modern method allows people to express their support online while also raising awareness about helping veterans.
Support from Mikov
During the fundraising period—that is, through today—we’re offering a 500 Kč discount on knives from the War Veteran Project edition. To apply the discount, simply enter the code VETERANI25 at checkout. By purchasing a knife, you’ll not only support a good cause but also acquire a unique piece of Czech knife-making tradition that pays homage to significant military missions:
STORM – a tribute to Operation Desert Storm (1991), the Czechoslovak Army’s first overseas mission.
GOLAK – a reference to the service of Czech soldiers in the peacekeeping mission in Kosovo.
REPETITOR – a knife inspired by the UNPROFOR, UNCRO, IFOR, and SFOR missions in the Balkans. It is named after Checkpoint T 23 – Repetitor.
A Personal Remembrance: Visiting the Grave of Petr Valeš
On Saturday, November 8, we visited the grave of Petr Valeš in Rožmitál na Šumavě, a Czech soldier who tragically lost his life during a foreign mission. His sacrifice serves as a reminder to us of why it is important to honor and support veterans.
How can you help?
It doesn’t take much—whether by purchasing a knife from the War Veteran project, sending a donation to the fund’s account 44665522/0800 (Variable Symbol: 918, Message: DVV), or buying a poppy. Every contribution, no matter how small, can change someone’s life.
More information:
Military Solidarity Fund
Poppies of the Czech Republic