President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon, friends,
Presenting state decorations in Moscow, in the Kremlin, in the heart of Russia, undoubtedly carries special meaning. This solemn ceremony serves to recognise the merits of outstanding citizens of Russia, their selfless labour, unique talent, exceptional courage, and the achievements and breakthroughs that our contemporaries are making in a diverse range of fields.
These successes directly contribute to the progress of our nation as a whole, to the development of Russia, and will serve the state, the people, and our descendants for many decades to come.
Ivan Dedov has been awarded the Order of St Andrew the Apostle the First-Called. His contribution to the theory and clinical practice of modern endocrinology has truly historic significance. Academician Dedov has in many respects defined the development of this vital field of medicine. His name is associated with systemic approaches to the organisation of medical care, and to the prevention and treatment of diabetes mellitus and other diseases.
Today, we are joined by representatives of Russian science, culture, education and healthcare, as well as non-profit organisations. Our deepest respect, however, is reserved for the participants in the special military operation – people who are defending the national interests and borders of our Fatherland.
The Gold Star medals of Heroes of Russia are presented to Lieutenant Colonel Ivan Berestovsky and Deputy Prime Minister of the Donetsk People’s Republic, in the recent past a combat officer, Ilya Yemelyanov.
The Badge of Merit – the Cross of St George, I degree – is presented to our soldiers, our brave soldiers Nikolai Kumenov and Yevgeny Rochev. For the first time in contemporary Russia, they have become full cavaliers of this decoration.
Friends,
We all bow our heads to the feat of those who gave their lives for the Motherland. The titles of Heroes of Russia were posthumously conferred upon Vasily Marzoyev and Alexander Rezanov.
Service to the state, society and the people unites all those who have achieved exceptional heights in their profession and succeeded in their chosen vocation. Present in this hall is a whole constellation of creators, workers, and masters. I thank each and every one of you and wish to pay special tribute to the Heroes of Labour of Russia.
Among them are heads of agricultural enterprises, Fyodor Buldyzhov from the Krasnodar Territory and Georgy Svid from the Ryazan Region, alongside Tatyana Kozhevnikova, a milking machine operator from the Stavropol Territory.
Heroes of Labour also include Director General of the Rubin Central Design Bureau for Marine Engineering in St Petersburg Igor Vilnit – those familiar with the Navy will appreciate the vital role this bureau plays in safeguarding our nation’s interests – and Vitaly Ignatenko, widely recognised across the country, who serves as head of the Public Television of Russia.
Representatives of the legendary Yury Gagarin cosmonaut corps are making a substantial contribution to the development of the manned space programme. Alexander Gorbunov has been awarded the Gold Star medal of the Hero of Russia and the honorary title of Pilot-Cosmonaut of the Russian Federation: during an extended mission as part of an international crew, he displayed courage and exemplary professional competence.
We have always taken great pride in and felt deep admiration for large, close-knit families who have devoted themselves to raising children. Their way of life is founded on mutual love and respect, goodness and unwavering parental devotion. The high title of Mother Heroine has been conferred upon Olga Lobova from Moscow. Together with her husband, an Orthodox priest, she is raising eleven children.
I am delighted to see here today distinguished figures of Russian culture, Yury Antonov and Nadezhda Babkina. Through your creative endeavours, you support and inspire the public and bring joy to Russian families. This exemplifies the immense value of art and the significance of your talents.
Friends, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all those who will now receive state decorations. You are strong, generous, and courageous people. Each of you has succeeded in fulfilling your aspirations and calling, and in applying your talents and intellect; you have fought, worked, created, and scaled new heights for the Motherland, for our people.
Allow me to wish you further success and all the best.
(Ceremony to present state decorations.)
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President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Once again, I would like to sincerely congratulate you on receiving your state decorations.
One of the speakers here mentioned how gratifying it is to be among outstanding people. And that is truly the case – among outstanding people, and among those who help cultivate excellence in others. One of the recipients quietly said to me, “I serve the working people.” And you truly do so in the very best way. We all serve working people, but you do it with utmost dedication.
Thank you very much for your work, your talent, and your achievements.