Who is Eren Bülbül?
Eren Bülbül was a child living in the Maçka district of Trabzon. He was born on January 1, 2002. He came from a large family and was the youngest child. He grew up in a modest single-story house in a small neighborhood called Köprüyanı.
Eren Bülbül (GoodThatYouExistEren)
Education and Daily Life
Eren attended primary school in his own neighborhood and later went to Maçka Anatolian Imam Hatip High School. He was only 14 years old when he lost his father. As a result, he continued attending school while also helping his family. He worked by collecting hazelnuts and tending livestock. He was a great fan of Trabzonspor and was a hardworking child.
The Famous Photograph
A photograph of Eren became widely known. While he was herding sheep on a highland pasture, a teacher took his picture. The teacher said Eren appeared very mature and kind-hearted. After Eren was martyred, this photograph touched the hearts of everyone.
Eren Bülbül (GoodThatYouExistEren)
Heroism and Martyrdom
On August 11, 2017, Eren noticed terrorists hiding in his village. He immediately alerted the Gendarmerie and guided them to the location. At that moment, a treacherous attack occurred. Eren was martyred alongside Gendarmerie Non-Commissioned Officer Ferhat Gedik. Eren was only 15 years old. He acted with great bravery. After being seriously wounded, he was taken to the hospital but could not be saved. A police officer was also injured in the attack.
Funeral and Farewell
A large funeral ceremony was held for Eren. His family, friends, state officials, and thousands of people attended. The Turkish flag was draped over his coffin. Eren was buried beside his father. The entire nation mourned his loss but was also deeply proud of his courage.
"Thank You for Existing, Eren"
Before his martyrdom, Eren had written the following message on social media:
"Someone should say, Eren, thank you for existing."
This phrase touched everyone’s heart. Soon, people began saying it everywhere. Because Eren truly was someone to be thankful for!
His Name Will Live On
Eren’s name now lives on in many places. Schools, mosques, libraries, youth centers, airplanes, and forests have been named after him. Even an orphanage in Somalia and some water wells in Africa bear his name. An unmanned aerial vehicle named Bayraktar was also named in his honor.
A Film Was Made
Eren’s life was made into a film. The movie titled "Kesişme: İyi ki Varsın Eren" was released in cinemas on January 1, 2022. His mother was deeply moved while watching it. Through this film, people came to know Eren better.
Eren Operations
In 2021, "Eren Operations" were launched to honor his memory. These operations were conducted in the fight against terrorism. His mother said these operations could not bring Eren back, but keeping his name alive filled her with great pride.
Eren will live on in the hearts of us all as a hero through his courage and kindness. Thank you for existing, Eren!
