In Vitebsk, more than 300 conscripts of the 103rd Vitebsk Airborne Brigade were honored
The event took place on Victory Square near the Memorial Complex in honor of Soviet soldiers-liberators, partisans, and underground fighters of the Vitebsk region. Veterans of the unit, representatives of the authorities, pupils of the "Gvardiya" military-patriotic club, and schoolchildren from the city, as well as clergy, joined in honoring the soldiers who completed their "срочная" service.
– Thank you very much for your hard work, courage, endurance, and determination. You patrolled sections of the state border and participated in various exercises. You have proven yourselves with dignity everywhere, – said the commander of the 103rd Brigade, Guards Colonel Vladimir Safonov, addressing those present. – During your service, you have gained new friends and comrades, you have become a united team and true paratroopers. I am confident that each of you will prove yourself with dignity in the future. You will work for the prosperity of our Belarus and will always be ready to defend your Motherland, its independence, and territorial integrity.
For many "срочники" (conscripts), the 103rd Vitebsk Separate Guards Airborne Brigade has become like a second home during their service. For example, for junior sergeant, deputy platoon commander Vyacheslav Petrusyov, the year and a half flew by quickly.
– Of course, there were difficult moments, but thanks to the support of the officers and the help of comrades, the service as a whole went smoothly. We have become a true paratrooper brotherhood. And I am proud that I fulfilled my military duty specifically in the 103rd Brigade, because the strongest and most capable guys serve here. This is a military elite that can accomplish any combat mission, – noted Vyacheslav Petrusyov. – I am from Mogilev myself, and I am very happy to be returning home today, but I will always remember the time spent in service with pride and warmth.
As part of the event, the best servicemen were awarded with certificates and gifts, including merchandise from "Pervy". And after the traditional farewell to the banner, those discharged to the reserve marched solemnly across the square and headed home to their families and loved ones.