A ceremonial reception for internationalist soldiers was held at the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan.
— 30 years ago, the last Soviet servicemen left the Central Asian country. For Vitebsk region, this is a special date, as representatives of the 103rd Guards Airborne Division were "across the river". They honorably fulfilled the tasks set before them, counteracting the growing Islamic fundamentalism, — said Nikolai Nikolaevich. — Not all of them returned home alive. The residents of the region sacredly cherish the memory of the fallen.
He also noted that he well remembers the events related to what was happening on Afghan soil. At that time, he served in the Armed Forces, but did not go to Afghanistan.
— The war lasted almost ten years. These years brought much suffering not only to the combatants but also to their mothers and wives. For everyone, it became a severe trial, — emphasized Nikolai Sherstnev. — After returning to their homeland, the servicemen faced social insecurity caused by the collapse of the Soviet Union and the belittling of their fulfilled international duty. History has put everything in its place. Our state values the contribution of the "Afghans" to the protection of peace from terrorist threats and provides them with all possible support. You have fulfilled your duty, shown courage and heroism while outside your native country. You are a role model for the younger generation, an example of honor, brotherly mutual assistance, and love for the Fatherland.
Nikolai Sherstnev: Today, the "Afghan" soldiers are an ideological stronghold of the state in educating the youth.
The head of the region also awarded representatives of the Belarusian Union of War Veterans in Afghanistan and relatives of the deceased with jubilee medals and letters of gratitude for their contribution to the heroic-patriotic education of youth and active participation in the public life of the country.
The chairman of the regional council of deputies, Vladimir Terentyev, joined the congratulations.
— I wish you health, long life, and peaceful skies above your heads, — said Vladimir Vladimirovich. — Unfortunately, there are fewer and fewer of your predecessors — veterans of the Great Patriotic War. You must become their successors in working with youth.
