Pyongyang, December 24 (KCNA) -- Today marks the 20th anniversary of Kim Jong Il's assumption of the supreme commandership of the Korean People's Army.

The Korean people have celebrated the day significantly with all streets, villages, army units and industrial establishments garbed in festive attire.

This year, however, the day serves as an occasion for all the people to experience bitter grief at the loss of the supreme commander and sorely miss him.

Over the past two decades since Kim Jong Il became the supreme commander, the Korean people have resolutely fought to defend the socialist homeland without slightest vacillation though they suffered grief at the demise of President Kim Il Sung and serious damages from repeated natural disasters, while being harassed by the imperialists' persistent sanctions and moves to isolate the DPRK.

With a deep insight into the rigorous situation, Kim Jong Il started pursuing unique Songun (military-first) politics to successfully guide the army and the people, performing great exploits in the Juche-based army building.

Under his Songun revolutionary leadership based on the love for the nation and the people, the DPRK has become a political and military power, manufactured and launched satellites and possessed nuclear weapons.

On the occasion of the anniversary, the Korean army and people are determined to move up the final victory of the Juche-based revolutionary cause under the great leadership of Kim Jong Un, true to the behests of Kim Jong Il.