The message reads, in part:
“Russia’s Airborne Forces have a long and glorious history of which the current generations of the forces’ men and officers are proud. Your predecessors served the country faithfully and loyally, acting competently, purposefully and courageously in the most difficult situations, as well as maintaining loyalty to the combat brotherhood. We will never forget the paratroopers who fought in the Great Patriotic War, as well as those who carried out their duty honourably in the world’s hot spots and as part of peacekeeping missions.
It is important that you keep up the patriotic traditions of the “airborne infantry”, fulfil your missions with utmost responsibility and firmly safeguard Russia’s national interests.”