Martyrs’ Day in South Sudan is a cultural holiday observed every July 30th. This day commemorates the death of John Garang de Mabior, a Sudanese politician and revolutionary leader who died in a helicopter crash on July 30, 2005. He was the leader of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army during the Second Sudanese Civil War and briefly served as the First Vice President of Sudan. Martyrs’ Day is a day to honor and remember those who have sacrificed their lives for the freedom and independence of South Sudan. Schools and most businesses are closed on this public holiday, and it is a day off for the general population.