President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Comrades,
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the servicemen, employees and civilian personnel of the National Guard on their professional holiday, National Guard Day. I also wish to honour the veterans who have served honourably for the glory of our Fatherland.
The National Guard is making an important contribution to the effort to address difficult and responsible tasks involved in protecting law and order and national security, as well as in combating crime. You proudly uphold the heroic traditions established in the era of the Russian Empire, forged in the battles of the Great Patriotic War, reinforced and in the post-Victory fight against Nazi collaborators, and further strengthened during the campaign to eliminate international terrorism in the Caucasus.
Today, the National Guard units carry out their duties with precision and professionalism, achieving significant results in their operational and service activities. You are entrusted with guarding critical state and industrial facilities, transportation and communication networks, and energy enterprises. You escort special cargoes and humanitarian convoys, and oversee arms control.
I want to especially acknowledge members of the National Guard participating in the special military operation. You fight valiantly for our Motherland, for our freedom and sovereignty. You detect and eliminate enemy sabotage groups and arms caches, and help restore peaceful life in liberated cities and towns.
I thank you for your unwavering loyalty to our Fatherland, your iron will, steadfast spirit and resilience. In the most difficult and dangerous conditions, you fulfil you sacred duty to the very end – honouring Russia and the memory of your fallen comrades, warriors and patriots who gave their lives in this righteous struggle.
I am confident that the experience gained in these challenging times will further unite the ranks of the National Guard and enhance its effectiveness across all areas of operations. This, in turn, will strengthen trust and reinforce the high regard in which you are held.
I wish you continued success in your demanding and noble service to the Fatherland and the people of Russia.
Happy National Guard Day!