Peacekeeping soldiers meeting took place in Krasnodar

Today a meeting dedicated to 25th anniversary of soviet troops withdrawal from Republic of Afghanistan took place in Chistyakovskaya grove. Nearly 3,5 thousand Krasnodar citizens came to pay the tribute to the memory of those who discharged their duty outside motherland.

— Quarter of a century is the period that many of you have had soul wound and pain which you are doomed to bear for life. We express sincere gratitude for your feat accomplished for the sake of native land. The city starts building of a new memorial complex in honor of those people who defended our state’s interests outside its territory, and certainly the nest year we will meet together by this new memorial, — deputy head of Krasnodar Sergey Vasin said when greeting participants of the meeting.

Currently over 1200 veterans of combat operations in Afghanistan live in Krasnodar. About hundred were wounded and became invalids, 46 died. Over two hundred veterans are awarded with orders and medals.

Traditionally “youth file” joined participants of the meeting. Before start of the event approximately 1200 boys and girls — students from 45 universities and secondary specialized colleges of the city — paraded down Krasnaya Street from Khakurate Street to the monument at Chistyakovskaya grove.  Municipal youth department organized this action.

— Today young persons look up to you. Those times during the war you had to act in the most difficult circumstances and yet you demonstrated bravery and firmness.  Now you are a pattern of courage and heroism, example for the rising generation. Municipal authorities promise you to render assistance in solving of all vital problems, - chairwoman of Krasnodar City Duma Vera Galushko remarked when addressing ex-soldiers.

Gathered people held a moment of silence in memory of all who died. Anthems of Russia, Kuban and Krasnodar were played and people laid flowers and wreaths to the monument “To Sons of Kuban fallen in Afghanistan”. Ceremonial salute sounded in the air. Servicemen of Krasnodar garrison marched in review.

Today veterans of Afghan war were also congratulated by Krasnodar Head Vladimir Evlanov at solemn meeting in Krasnodar administration.