Memory of Russia: Feb. 15 sees celebration of the Day of Memory for Russian citizens who performed their duty outside of Fatherland

For the first time in Russia the date of February 15 is celebrated as a Day of Memory for Russian citizens who performed their duty outside of the Fatherland. This holiday used to be unofficial and was informally marked as a Day of the Soldier-Internationalist. In November 2010 amendments were introduced into the law “On Dates of Military Glory of Russia”, and the date of Feb. 15 was included into the list of the country’s memorial celebrations.

The date has been chosen not casually: on this day 22 years ago Soviet troops were withdrawn from Afghanistan. However the Day of memory is dedicated not just to the heroes of Afghanistan. After the end of World War II there were more than 30 wars and confrontations outside the country. All in all 25 thousand of our compatriots perished during the performance of their duty.

An official representative of Land forces lieutenant colonel Sergei Vlasov has informed that “in all military districts and Land Forces units servicemen will take part in ceremonies of laying wreaths to memorials of soldiers, who passed away in military conflicts abroad, as well as in meetings dedicated to this date”.