Over 350 people attended the event held in the Grand Kremlin Palace’s St George Hall, including Heroes of the Russian Federation, Heroes of the Soviet Union, and Cavaliers of the Order of St George.
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President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Friends,
Today we are marking Heroes of the Fatherland Day. This memorable date was established to honour Heroes of the Soviet Union and the Russian Federation and holders of the Order of Glory and the Order of St George.
Gathered here in the Moscow Kremlin’s St George Hall are representatives of different professions, generations, ethnic groups and religions. However, you are all united in your courage and willpower, in the heroic and courageous feats you performed in the name of our Motherland, its might and security, in the name of everything that unites us.
Every era creates its own heroes. We remember and honour all those who did and are doing their combat and civil duty, those who gave up their lives in battle defending this country and its people and those who are next to us today.
I would like to express special gratitude and respect to veterans of the Great Patriotic War. Your life is first and foremost about a responsible, truly personal attitude to our Motherland. This great, heartfelt patriotism inspires and mobilises the current generation of Russia’s defenders.
They are protecting our country at all borderlines, near and far. Our Armed Forces today are resisting international terrorism that is posing a deadly threat to the whole world. Russian soldiers are fighting it courageously, risking their lives and, unfortunately, as you know, bearing losses.
Thousands of kilometres away from their homeland, they feel the support of all Russia, the support of all our people. This unity, this dedication to our Motherland and readiness to set it above all else determine our goals and our actions.
The heroic victorious potential of our people is inexhaustible. This has been supported by many centuries of tradition and history, combat and labour feats of many generations. Among them are the heroic feats and lofty achievements of those present in this hall today, the valour and honour of all the heroes of Russia.
I thank you for your service to the nation, your service to Russia.
Congratulations!