Shershnev: The memory of the war must live in the hearts of the heirs of the generation of victors

The memory of the war must live in the hearts of the heirs of the generation of victors. This was stated by the Chairman of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee, Nikolai Sherstnev, at the traditional meeting of partisans and underground fighters of Belarus, Russia, and Latvia at the Mound of Friendship, located at the junction of the borders of the three states, reports the correspondent of BELTA.

"This tradition was established by our fathers 56 years ago. And today, it is our duty to pass the baton to children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. The memory of that terrible war must live in every heart. It is very important that future generations do not forget that this land is literally soaked in blood. We have no right to forget about it," the head of the region is convinced.

Nikolai Sherstnev thanked the veterans for their military feat, wished them health and longevity, optimism, and good spirits.

In addition to war veterans, the delegations of the states that arrived at the 56th meeting include representatives of public organizations, the deputy corps, and regional leadership.

This year, Russia is the host. The main celebrations are taking place in the Sebezhsky district of the Pskov region.

The Mound of Friendship was erected in 1959 on the border of three republics - BSSR, RSFSR, and Latvian SSR in honor of the combat camaraderie of partisans of Belarus, Latvia, and Russia. The earth for it was taken from the graves of partisans and Red Army soldiers, from the places of death of Alexander Matrosov, Klava Nazarova, Lenya Golikov, Masha Poryvaeva, and other heroes. Three alleys lead to the Mound: from Belarus - a birch alley, from Russia - a maple alley, from Latvia - a linden alley. An oak tree grows at the top of the Mound, symbolizing the unbreakable friendship of the three peoples. Three granite slabs bear inscriptions in three languages: "The Mound of Friendship is erected at the junction of the borders of three fraternal republics in honor of the combat friendship cemented by blood during the Great Patriotic War by Russian, Belarusian, and Latvian partisans. Opened on July 3, 1959." The Sinyaya River flows on the territory of the complex, which is now the border between Russia and Latvia.