In Glubokoye, they honored the memory of internationalist soldiers

February 15 is a date etched in our country's history not only by numbers but also by profound human destinies. On this day, 37 years ago, the Afghan War concluded, leaving behind a trail of pain, loss, and unfading glory. Annually, on the Day of Remembrance of Internationalist Soldiers, the residents of Glubokoye gather in Victory Park to pay tribute to those who honorably fulfilled their military duty and to those who did not return home.

The rally brought together former participants of the Afghan events, representatives of institutions, enterprises, and public organizations, as well as the district leadership – Chairman of the Glubokoye District Executive Committee Petr Belus and Chairman of the Glubokoye District Council of Deputies Vera Telitsa.

Opening the rally, Petr Belus emphasized that February 15 is not just a date but a special day for everyone who went through Afghanistan. He noted the courage, resilience, and nobility of soul of the Soviet soldiers, demonstrated in those harsh years.

The head of the district specifically highlighted the contribution of veterans to the peaceful development of the country, their selfless work for the benefit of the city and district, as well as their invaluable role in the patriotic education of the younger generation. Petr Kazimirovich urged everyone to remember the fellow countrymen who did not return from Afghanistan and wished the veterans good health and well-being.

In recognition of merits, a Letter of Gratitude from the Chairman of the Glubokoe District Executive Committee for an active life position and a significant contribution to the civic-patriotic education of the younger generation was presented to Vasily Mikhalievich, a member of the Glubokoe District organization of the NGO "Belarusian Union of Veterans of the War in Afghanistan".

Vladimir Lipchik, also a member of the district organization of Afghan war veterans, was awarded an Honorary Diploma of the Glubokoe District Council of Deputies for similar merits.

Words of support and respect were also expressed by Sergey Krasnodubsky, Military Commissar of the Glubokoe and Sharkovshchina districts. He emphasized that the feat of the internationalist soldiers is an example of true patriotism and selfless service to the Motherland.

Sergey Krasnodubsky noted that the memory of the heroes of Afghanistan is not only a tribute to the past but also an important lesson for future generations, a reminder of the value of peace and the need to defend one's country. He wished the veterans and all those present peace, prosperity, and the preservation of this sacred memory.

Anton Zhdanovich, Chairman of the Glubokoe District organization of the NGO "Belarusian Union of Veterans of the War in Afghanistan," addressed the rally participants. He proudly noted that much is being done in Belarus to support internationalist soldiers. Current legislation provides for their social protection, rehabilitation centers are being opened, and housing and utility issues are promptly resolved. Anton Zhdanovich expressed sincere gratitude to the leadership of the Glubokoe district for their constant attention to the needs and interests of veterans, for their support and sensitivity.

In conclusion of his speech, Anton Zhdanovich presented certificates to the Vitebsk Regional Organization of the Public Association "Belarusian Union of War Veterans in Afghanistan" for their special contribution to the development of the veteran movement, work on preserving historical memory, a worthy contribution to military-patriotic education, and active participation in the work of the district organization to Anatoly Kovalyonok, Vladimir Tikhonov, and Gennady Klopov.

Then, a minute of silence was observed in memory of those who did not return from Afghanistan. At that moment, when time seemed to stand still, everyone present felt the weight of loss and the depth of their feat. Then, bowing their heads, the rally participants laid fresh flowers at the monument, symbolizing eternal memory and gratitude.