The Merekovskaya school has been named after the Hero of Socialist Labor Leonid Pugovko

On September 16, a significant event took place at the Mereckov Basic School – the educational institution was named after the Hero of Socialist Labor Leonid Konstantinovich Pugovko. This name, inextricably linked with the history of the Gluboksky district, will now inspire young generations to new achievements.

Leonid Konstantinovich Pugovko, born in 1917, experienced the hardships and joys of peasant labor from a young age. His life path was marked not only by selfless service to his Motherland during the Great Patriotic War but also by outstanding achievements in peacetime. Having endured the harsh trials of the front, defended Leningrad, participated in battles at the Kursk-Orel salient and near Kyiv, and reached Berlin itself, Leonid Pugovko was awarded two Orders of the Red Star, two Orders of Glory of the II and III degrees, as well as the medals "For Military Merit," "For the Defense of Leningrad," and "For Victory over Germany in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945."

Returning home in the autumn of 1945, despite incomplete secondary education obtained during his service, Leonid Pugovko, with his characteristic energy and determination, set about restoring peaceful life. His organizational skills were evident in his work as head of the reading room and later in leadership positions in rural councils. In 1951, when five small farms were merged into the "September 17" collective farm, it was Leonid Pugovko who was elected its chairman. Under his wise leadership, the once poor farm transformed into a prosperous millionaire collective farm. In 1956, the grain yield reached a record 21.5 centners per hectare – this was the first such indicator in Belarus. For outstanding success in agricultural development, the implementation of advanced technologies, and scientific achievements, Leonid Pugovko was awarded the high title of Hero of Socialist Labor in January 1958.

A solemn ceremony dedicated to naming the school after a hero and in anticipation of the upcoming National Unity Day was held in an atmosphere of deep respect and pride. The event was attended by representatives of the district authorities, the teaching staff, students, as well as those who knew Leonid Pugovko personally: his wife's niece Valentina Alkhimovich, former chairman of the "September 17" collective farm Anatoly Pochepko, and former chief accountant Zoya Lazar.

Petr Belus, Chairman of the Glubokoye District Executive Committee, addressing the attendees, emphasized the importance of preserving the memory of people like Leonid Pugovko for fostering patriotism and diligence in the younger generation.

He also presented the school with a certificate for 5,000 rubles.

As part of the event, a dialogue platform "Hero of Peacetime" was held, where warm memories of Leonid Pugovko's life and work were shared. Historical excursions were conducted by employees of the Glubokoye Archive and Museum.

The culmination of the ceremony was the solemn unveiling of a memorial plaque announcing the naming of the school after the Hero of Socialist Labor Leonid Pugovko.

To conclude the event, following a cherished tradition, participants planted young apple trees on the school grounds, symbolizing growth and prosperity.