A rally dedicated to the Homeland Defender’s Day took place in Smolensk

On the eve of the Homeland Defender’s Day a rally was held in the Heroes Memorial Park near the Fire of Eternal Glory, which was attended by the representatives of government authorities, law enforcement agencies, public organizations, school and university students.

The Homeland Defender’s Day is a holiday of those who genuinely defend the independence of their country, remaining faithful to their military duty and oath.

During the Great Patriotic War 235 Smolensk region residents were awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union. Among them there was a native of Rudnya district, Mikhail Egorov, who hoisted the Banner of Victory over the defeated Reichstag. Also, 45 of our countrymen became full cavaliers of the Order of Glory.

Russia had to go through a lot of fierce and bloody wars and managed to withstand in them only due to unity of its people. The defense of your home and your Homeland is the most important duty, performing which is a matter of honor for each person. That is why February 23 is becoming more and more popular nationwide as the Day of all strong, courageous, and determined people.

As a sign of deep respect, the participants of the rally honored the memory of the Homeland Defenders with a minute of silence, laid wreaths and flowers to the Eternal Fire and the graves of Heroes at the Smolensk fortress wall. At the end of the rally there was a parade of the Guards of Honor.