A divisional gun of the 1942 model has been installed in Vitebsk

Last Saturday marked the grand opening of a monument – a 76mm divisional gun ZIS-3, model 1942.

The rally, held on Tsitov Street in Vitebsk, was attended by representatives of the city authorities, the Ministry of Defense, and guests from Russia, including veterans of the 1179th Guards Artillery Red Banner Regiment of the 103rd Separate Mobile Brigade. It was here, from 1956 to 1990, that this unit was stationed. It was formed in 1944, took an active part in the hostilities of the Great Patriotic War, and made a significant contribution to Victory. The soldiers of the artillery regiment played a significant role during the military conflict in Afghanistan: as part of the 103rd Airborne Division, they were among the first to begin fighting the Mujahideen and the last to return home. Many of the servicemen were awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union, and the regiment was awarded the Order of the Red Banner.

— This memorial is a memory of the heroism and courage of Soviet artillerymen, — clarified Deputy Chairman of the City Executive Committee Pyotr Podgursky. — They should be an example for us of devotion and love for the Motherland.

The 76 mm gun M1942 (ZiS-3) is a Soviet divisional and anti-tank artillery piece. The chief designer was Vasily Grabin. The ZiS-3 became the most mass-produced artillery piece during the Great Patriotic War. It is installed in Vitebsk near the building of the former headquarters of the 1179th regiment.

Eduard KARALEVICH, "Vitebskiye vesti". Photo by the author.