The leadership of the Vitebsk region addressed congratulations to the veterans of the war in Afghanistan

Dear Internationalist Soldiers,
Veterans of the Afghan War!

On February 15, we celebrate the Day of Remembrance of Internationalist Soldiers and pay tribute and gratitude to the servicemen who defended the interests of the Motherland in international military conflicts.

Referring to the historical experience of past decades and analyzing the current global situation, we are re-evaluating the significance of the mission of internationalist soldiers. On this day, we express our gratitude to those who, being in the "hot spots" of the planet, ensured the solution of national security tasks, conscientiously fulfilled their military and international duty, and remained loyal to their oath until the end.

160 sons of the Pridvinye region died in the Afghan War, and more than 1200 participants in those tragic events have passed away in peacetime. Two natives of the region – Vasily Pimenov and Vasily Shcherbakov – were awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union, and over one and a half thousand were awarded orders and medals. Streets are named after them, memorial plaques are installed on the schools where the heroes studied, and their memory lives on in museum exhibits and books.

Having carried their honor and dignity, forged in the flames of war, into peaceful life, internationalist soldiers continue to work with dignity for the benefit of their native land. Today, veterans of combat operations, representatives of the Belarusian Union of Afghan War Veterans, are a model in the military-patriotic education of youth, an example for all who serve, strengthening the defense capability of our country and increasing the might of its Armed Forces. We thank you for your courage and firm life stance.

We sincerely wish you good health, high spirits, and long life. May peace and happiness reign in your families!