The message reads, in part:
“Today your Congress will once again establish the Russian Military Historical Society, which unites professional historians, representatives of the armed forces, public and youth organisations, search teams and military patriotic clubs – all those who dedicate their hard work, talent and knowledge to the conservation of the Fatherland’s military history.
As we revive the society, we pay respectful homage to all generations of Russian servicemen and everyone who has preserved Russia for us and defended its freedom and sovereignty at different times.
I am convinced that in order to successfully move forward, to preserve our national identity, we must strengthen the connection between different epochs and stay in touch with our traditions and roots, our spiritual and cultural heritage. It is our duty to know and defend our history, to keep alive the names of our heroes, and do our best to live up to the moral guidelines that they bequeathed to us.
We must always remember that there are values which are above any political affiliation: patriotism and the sacred duty of defending our Homeland, national dignity and loyalty to our roots.
The work that lies ahead for you includes the implementation of major research, educational, publishing and humanitarian projects. This work is in great demand and is certain to receive the necessary support from the Government.”
The Military Historical Society was established by the presidential executive order of December 29, 2012, and continues the traditions of the Imperial Russian Military Historical Society, which was founded in 1907 and functioned until the 1917 revolution.