November 27 - Marine Corps Day: history and traditions of the holiday

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree establishing a new holiday in the Russian Armed Forces - Marine Corps Day. It will be celebrated annually on November 27. "Izvestia" tells why this date was chosen and how the Marines were called during the Great Patriotic War.

Marine Corps Day in 2024 - history of the holiday

Despite the fact that Marine Corps Day was officially included in the list of professional holidays and commemorative dates only in 2024, the celebration itself has existed for more than 25 years. It was established in 1996 by order of the Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy (Navy) and was initially celebrated only in the circles of marines.

The date of the holiday was not chosen by chance: on November 27, 1705, by order of Peter the Great, the first "regiment of sea soldiers" was formed in Russia, the main task of which was to board enemy ships and combat landings on the shore. The idea of creating such units, the tsar "looked up" from the British, who began to use the landing force in maritime campaigns in the 1660s.

The Russian marine infantry was baptized during the Northern War of 1700-1721. The soldiers distinguished themselves in many major battles, including at Cape Gangut in 1714. Subsequently, the marines repeatedly demonstrated their valor and desire to serve the Motherland. They participated in the Patriotic War of 1812, the Crimean War of 1853-1856, held the defense of Sevastopol in 1854-1855, fought in World War I and the Civil War.

After the beginning of the Great Patriotic War, Marine Corps units were formed in all fleets and naval bases. They defended Moscow, Leningrad, Odessa, Stalingrad, and other Soviet cities. Several brigades defended the Kuril Islands and Sakhalin. For their fearlessness and efficiency, opponents called Soviet Marines "black devils" - after the color of their uniforms.

In 1956, the Marines were disbanded. However, already in 1963 this branch of troops was revived. Since then, it has been an integral part of the country's Navy.

Modern marines are highly mobile units designed to fight during sea, air-sea and airborne landings. They are also responsible for ensuring the security of Russian naval bases and other significant objects on the country's coast.

Traditions of Marine Corps Day on Nov. 27

Marine Corps Day celebrations are usually held inside military units. Fighters take part in solemn formation, accept congratulations from the command and veterans. Those who distinguished themselves in the service, are given honorary awards and assigned new ranks. In some units there are demonstrations of marines and small concerts.

Earlier "Izvestia" told about the history and traditions of the Day of the employee of the internal affairs bodies of Russia.