Memory of Russia: The monument to a chaplain opened in Maloyaroslavets

A monument to a chaplain is opened in Maloyaroslavets. In the central square of the city, opposite the monument to the Heroes of the Patriotic War of 1812 Antonio Adamini, the Russian Military-Historical Society is erected a sculptural composition of the People's Artist of Russia Salavat Shcherbakov.

A prototype for the monument was a chaplain of the 19th Regiment of Chasseurs Vasily Vasilkovskywho caused the widening attack of Russian troops in the Battle of Maloyaroslavets in 1812. In the battle Basil Vasilkovsky was twice wounded, but remained in the fight until the end. For his courage, he was the first priest of the Russian Orthodox Church and was awarded the Order of St. George.

- Today, on the eve of the Battle of Maloyaroslavets, we discover a remarkable monument not only to a specific historical person. This monument to the Russian man who, regardless of the profession - and yet it is difficult to find a more peaceful profession than a priest - heavy for the country hour with a cross in his hands and without arms, walked in the front rank of attacking, - said at the ceremony, Minister of Culture of the Russian Federation, chairman of RVIO Vladimir Medinsky.

Vladimir Medinsky also told about the program of the Russian military-historical society to perpetuate the memory of great personalities of historical events.

- This series of monuments dedicated to the heroes of the First World War, starting with the Poklonnaya Hill and more across the country; monuments associated with the heroes of the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945, heroes of the Patriotic War of 1812, - said the Chairman of the Russian Military-Historical Society.