- Статьи
- Society
- Airborne Forces Day is celebrated in Russia: how the legendary troops appeared and why paratroopers bathe in fountains
Airborne Forces Day is celebrated in Russia: how the legendary troops appeared and why paratroopers bathe in fountains
In 2026, Russia will celebrate Airborne Forces Day for the 20th time since the holiday was given official status. However, the history of the "winged infantry" began much earlier — back in 1930. Read about how the paratrooper units turned into the elite of the Armed Forces, why they are called "Uncle Vasya's troops" and where the tradition of bathing in fountains came from.
Airborne Forces Day – 2026: the history of the holiday
In the 1930s, the first amphibious battalions began to appear in the Red Army. Soon they became part of the Air Force. For the next 15 years, the paratroopers were part of the Air Force, but in 1946 they began to report directly to the Minister of Defense and relate to the Ground Forces.
Airborne troops of the USSR
In 1991, the Blue Berets finally gained independence, and Airborne Forces Day became a notable mass holiday, although the paratroopers themselves had celebrated their holiday before. And on May 31, 2006, a decree was signed, according to which Airborne Forces Day received official status in Russia.
How the Russian Airborne Troops appeared
On August 2, 1930, at an exercise near Voronezh, 12 paratroopers parachuted from a Farman-Goliath aircraft. After the successful maneuver, the military realized the need to organize a new structure — the Airborne Troops. The first aviation brigade consisted of 164 people, and in 1933, the Air Force already had 29 airborne battalions and brigades.
At the same time, amphibious operations were carried out earlier. For example, in 1929, a group of Red Army soldiers landed from several planes near the village of Garm on the territory of modern Tajikistan, where they defeated a detachment of Basmachi.
Monument to the Soviet military commander Vasily Margelov
It is not uncommon to hear the comic decoding of the Airborne Forces — "Uncle Vasya's troops." We are talking about the Hero of the Soviet Union, Army General Vasily Margelov. He led the Airborne Troops in 1954-1959 and 1961-1979. It was he who had the greatest influence on the formation of the modern look of the Airborne Forces: he introduced a new maneuver — landing immediately in combat vehicles, as well as a distinctive uniform — vests and blue berets. The professional motto of the paratroopers is "Nobody but us!" It was also invented by Margelov.
Why do paratroopers bathe in fountains
History has not preserved reliable information about such an unusual tradition, but there are several versions. Firstly, it may be related to the national holiday Elijah's Day, which also falls on August 2. The celebration is associated with St. Elijah the prophet, who is considered the patron saint of paratroopers. Initially, as a sign of gratitude and reverence, the "blue berets" were washed with spring water, but later the tradition developed into bathing in fountains.
The second version is also related to Elijah's Day. According to popular beliefs, it is generally forbidden to swim on this day, as this promises illness or a meeting with mermaids and mermaids. By bathing in fountains, the paratroopers show their courage and bravery, that they are not afraid of evil spirits and diseases.
There is also a romantic version: supposedly, by climbing into the fountains, the paratroopers show their love for the sky, because it is reflected in the water.
The main symbols and traditions of the Airborne Forces Day
Airborne Forces Day has acquired many traditions and symbols in its history. First of all, the paratroopers pay tribute to their fallen brothers, meeting at the memorials to the paratrooper soldiers. Flowers and wreaths are laid at the monuments and monuments.
One of the most spectacular traditions is car rallies. The vehicles are decorated with Airborne Forces flags and the Russian tricolor. Every year, such columns can be seen in large cities.
Watermelons are usually eaten on Airborne Forces Day. This tradition did not come out of nowhere. According to legend, it was introduced by soldiers from Afghanistan, where watermelon becomes the main treat for the holidays. In addition, the holiday falls just in time for the watermelon season — the beginning of August.
Also on August 2, you can hear the song "Blue", the main anthem of the Airborne Forces, and other compositions. A special place in the repertoire of the paratroopers was occupied by the compositions of the famous military musical group "Blue Berets", especially the songs "Memory" and "Crew".
On this day, concerts, sports and other performances are held in central parks, where paratroopers demonstrate their skills. Gorky Park has become a traditional meeting place for those responsible for the celebration in Moscow.
Congratulations on Airborne Forces Day in your own words
"Congratulations on Airborne Forces Day! I wish you good health, fortitude, confidence and new achievements. May reliable friends always be around, and love, warmth and support are waiting for you at home!"
"Happy Airborne Troops Day! I wish you courage, perseverance and prosperity. May every day bring new victories, respect from others and confidence in the future!"
"Congratulations on Airborne Forces Day! May strength, courage and honor help you overcome any difficulties. I wish you good health, family happiness and a peaceful sky over your head!"
"Congratulations on the Airborne Troops Holiday! I wish you good health, endurance and inexhaustible energy. May every new day open up opportunities to achieve your goals!"
"Happy Airborne Day! I wish you strength, courage and confidence in every decision. May there be more joyful moments, good meetings and reasons for pride in life!"
"I sincerely congratulate you on the Day of the Airborne Forces! May your best qualities — courage, responsibility, and self—control - help you reach new heights. I wish you success, respect and great personal happiness!"
"Happy Airborne Day! I wish you true male friendship, good health and well-being. May all life's challenges be overcome easily, and there will always be close people around!"
"Congratulations on Airborne Forces Day! I wish you perseverance, strength and confidence in the future. May there be more happy events, quiet days and bright victories in life!"
"Happy Airborne Troops Day! I wish you good health, family warmth and success in all your endeavors. May your courage and determination lead only to victories!"
Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»
