Putin congratulated Russians on Defender of the Fatherland Day

Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 23 congratulated veterans, personnel and civilian staff of the Russian Armed Forces (AF) on Defender of the Fatherland Day.

"Special words of congratulations to our soldiers and officers, participants of the special military operation. Today, risking their lives and showing bravery, they resolutely defend their native land, national interests and the future of Russia. You are the main heroes of the Defender of the Fatherland Day, which is celebrated by our entire country," he announced.

According to the President, this holiday epitomizes the nationwide love and respect for the army and navy of Russia, for people for whom the military path has become a profession and a high calling.

"We rely on the centuries-old victorious traditions of the Russian military, on the strength, faith and courage of our ancestors. Those who fought on Lake Peipsi and Kulikovo Field, who in the XVI century defended Moscow, defeated the Troubles and preserved our statehood, who triumphed at Poltava, gained glory in the Battle of Borodino, defended Sevastopol during the Crimean War, showed courage in the Battle of Galicia and other battles of the First World War. Who made a grandiose feat, defeated Nazism, stormed Berlin and met there the victorious May 1945. This year, the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, has been declared the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland in Russia," Putin said.

The head of state also thanked all the participants of the special military operation for their fortitude and determination to win, for honest, faultless service to the Motherland and the people.

"To the glory of the indestructible generation of winners, in the name of the memory of their heroism and sacrifice, of the epochal victory they gave to the world, and in honor of the heroes who today on the battlefield worthily continue the military deeds of their ancestors. We all understand how difficult it is for you. We are proud and support you," he said.

Putin also informed that the course for strengthening and development of the Armed Forces remains unchanged.

"We will continue to increase the combat capabilities of the army and navy, their combat readiness as the most important component of ensuring Russia's security, a guarantee of its sovereign present and future, its progressive development," the president explained.

He also called the provision of real needs of the troops participating in the special military operation one of the unconditional priorities. In addition, it is specified that the state will continue to saturate the Armed Forces with new modern models and pay special attention to improving the level of social security of the serviceman.

"I am confident that the soldiers of Russia will continue to reliably defend their native country and their people. The kindest wishes to your family and friends, to those who wait and love you. Happy holiday! New successes in service for the good of our great Motherland!" - he concluded.

February 23 - Defender of the Fatherland Day: history, traditions, congratulations

Every year on February 23, Russia celebrates the Day of Defender of the Fatherland. For many years on this day congratulate all men regardless of age and rank. But traditionally, first of all, those who served in the army or are currently serving in the Armed Forces of the country are honored.

The history of the Defender of the Fatherland Day is more than 100 years old. It was first celebrated in 1919 as the Day of the Red Army on the anniversary of its formation. Then the holiday was called the Day of the Soviet Army, and later - the Day of the Soviet Army and Navy. This name it carried until 1992. Three years later, the current name appeared.