The message reads, in part:
“February 15, 1989, is an unforgettable landmark date for those who fought in Afghanistan and for the entire Russian nation. Thousands of our compatriots, including officers, soldiers, civilian specialists, medical workers, teachers, engineers and builders, honourably fulfilled their duty and displayed impressive professionalism and personal qualities. They won fame through their fortitude and bravery, compassion and nobleness. We will always remember the fallen heroes, our comrades who did not come back home.
It is important that the traditions of patriotism, selfless service to the Motherland and loyalty to the unbreakable combat fraternity are carefully passed on from generation to generation. Today, our soldiers are bravely fighting the neo-Nazis shoulder to shoulder and defending Russia.”