Na stráž

"Na stráž" is a Slovak greeting and farewell phrase traditionally used among members of the Hlinka Guard (Hlinkova garda), the militia maintained by the Slovak People's Party during the period of the Slovak Republic (1939-1945), a Nazi German puppet state. It literally translates to "On guard" or "To the guard."

The phrase served as a symbol of allegiance to the regime and its ideology, echoing a sense of vigilance and readiness to defend the Slovak state. The proper response to "Na stráž" was "Stráž verná!" meaning "Guard faithful!"

Due to its strong association with the authoritarian and collaborationist regime, the use of "Na stráž" is now generally considered offensive and carries strong negative connotations in modern-day Slovakia. It is widely seen as a symbol of fascism and a painful reminder of a dark period in Slovak history. While understanding its historical context is important, its usage outside of historical discussion is typically avoided due to its politically charged and offensive nature.