Governor Alexey Ostrovskiy took part in the ceremony dedicated to the Defender of Homeland Day

The "Gubernsky" culture and leisure center hosted a ceremony dedicated to the Defender of Homeland Day. The event was attended by the heads of the executive and legislative authorities of the region, veterans of the Great Patriotic War, the Armed Forces, servicemen of the Smolensk garrison and members of their families, commanders of military units, cadets and students of the Military Academy, Suvorov military school, members of Yunarmia.

The Defender of Homeland Day is one of the most important holidays for the heroic Smolensk land soaked with blood in the greatest battles. Smolensk region more than once stood in the way of the enemy, each inch of land keeps traces of numerous battles and military heroic deeds here. Today, Smolensk region is closely connected with the army, the defense industry, it is the forge of military personnel, and has always been a powerful shield of Russia.

Our region is one of the few where the two cities, Vyazma and Yelnya, which is the birthplace of the Soviet Guard, have the honor title of Cities of Military Glory.

In his opening speech, Governor Alexey Ostrovskiy pointed out: “Throughout the history of the Russian state, the defense of the Homeland has been was a high moral and civic duty for every citizen. So, when trouble came, Smolensk people, as well as the large family of all the peoples of Russia, all together, young and old, rose to defend their home and their land. It is quite natural that this holiday has a truly national character and is rightfully a symbol of courage, bravery and patriotism.

I, once again, would like to express special gratitude to the veterans of the Great Patriotic War. You will forever remain an example of honor and bravery, courage and boundless love for the Homeland for the following generations.

Recently, we celebrated another significant memorable date - the 30th anniversary of the withdrawal of the Soviet troops from Afghanistan. And whatever judgments may sound today, we should not forget that it was there, on the Afghan land, far from the Homeland, that our army and our country saved the world from the emerging threat of international terrorism, growing religious radicalism and narcotic aggression. We should not forget about all those who properly fulfilled their military duties in “hot spots” and local conflicts, carried out important peacekeeping missions, who are on duty today, responsibly protecting the interests of the state, peace and security of the fellow citizens.

The Supreme Commander, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin has many times firmly stated the fact that Russia is a peace-loving state. We don’t have and cannot have aggressive plans.”

Then, Alexey Ostrovskiy presented the Gratitude Address of the President of Russia to Captain Alexander Lungu and the Letters of Appreciation from the Governor to especially distinguished servicemen for responsible service, increasing the prestige of military affairs and personal contribution to the patriotic education of citizens.

There was a concert at the end of the event.