In Vitebsk, the memory of Soviet soldiers who liberated it from the Nazi invaders was honored
Practically nothing remained of Vitebsk, which had survived the occupation: destroyed buildings, empty streets. But after long years of enemy oppression, the residents breathed freely. This day became an important date in the lives of the Vitebsk residents of that time, who were getting used to peaceful everyday life anew and rebuilding their city from the ruins. Today, their descendants also honor the feats of heroes who fell in battle, and cherish freedom and independence.
Traditionally, on the anniversary of the liberation, flowers and wreaths were laid at the memorial complex in honor of Soviet soldiers, partisans, and underground fighters on Victory Square of the regional center. The event was attended by the chairman of the regional executive committee Nikolai Sherstnev and the head of the Vitebsk region's deputy corps Vladimir Terentyev. Hundreds of citizens, representatives of the city authorities, public organizations, and the clergy also gathered there.
— This is a great holiday for the people of Vitebsk. 75 years ago, the Soviet flag was hoisted
A flag over the building near the Academy of Veterinary Medicine on Dovator Street. Victory was achieved at a high price and with many sacrifices. Five death camps operated in Vitebsk, in which over 200 thousand people died. The scale of destruction in the city is evidenced by the fact that after the war, there were doubts whether it was worth restoring it, — said the chairman of the city executive committee Viktor Nikolaikin. — Since then, we have been living under a peaceful sky. Every year the city becomes more beautiful, its infrastructure develops. Festive events will continue for several days, they will be diverse and colorful.
The memory of the fallen was honored with a minute of silence and gun salutes.
Vitebsk Herald Reference. In late June 1944, Red Army soldiers forced the Western Dvina and began the assault on the western part of the regional center. All night from the 25th to the 26th, the liberator soldiers fought fierce battles, driving the Hitlerites out of houses, basements, and shelters. By morning, Vitebsk was completely cleared of the enemy. At the beginning of the Great Patriotic War, about 167 thousand people lived in the city. After liberation, only 113 Vitebsk residents met the Soviet soldiers.
EDUARD KAROLEVICH, photos by Dmitry Osipov, "Vitebskiye vesti".