Memorable dates of Russia: The Heroes’ Day celebrated in country

December 9, in Russia is marked the Heroes' Day. On this day are honored heroes of the Soviet Union, Heroes of the Russian Federation, full gentlemen of the Order of Glory and the Knights of the Order of St. George.

In modern Russia, the title of Hero of the Russian Federation, established in 1992, were awarded 592 soldiers.

On this day in all formations and units of the Armed Forces will be held celebrations devoted to the Heroes of the Fatherland Day. There will be held ceremonies of laying wreaths at the memorials and monuments to heroes of the Great Patriotic War and military conflicts. During studies on the socio-state training with the staff of military units the heroes – veterans will be gathered together. In the troops of the Ministry of Defence of Russia will be held military-sports and competitions for prizes and trophies dedicated to the heroes of the Fatherland. 

The memorable date was approved by the Russian Federal Law № 22-FZ dated 28 February 2007 "On Amendments to Article 1-1 of the Federal Law "On the days of military glory and anniversaries of Russia". Its history this holiday leads from the 18th century. This December's date is timed to the outstanding events of the reign of Empress Catherine II - in 1769 it established the Order of St. George. In those years, the medal was awarded to soldiers who have shown courage in battle, bravery and courage. Order of St. George was 4 degrees differences, the first of which was the highest. It is known that the holders of the four degrees of steel 4 people, among them the Great Russian general Mikhail Kutuzov and Mikhail B. Barclay de Tolly. Catherine II awarded herself this award in honor of the establishment of the Order.

Until 1917, on this day in Russia was celebrated a holiday of Knights of St. George. After the October Revolution of 1917 the order was abolished.

The status of military award was returned to the Order by the decree of the President of the Russian Federation dated August 8, 2000 "On approval of the Statute of the Order of St. George, the provisions of the Insignia - St. George's cross". In Soviet times, the highest degree of difference was considered the title of Hero of the Soviet Union, founded in April 1934.