As the celebration of Victory Day approaches, communities across Russia are gearing up to honor the sacrifices made during the Great Patriotic War by distributing St. George ribbons, a symbol of military glory and remembrance. Starting from April 24, 2025, volunteers in various regions are set to hand out these iconic ribbons to residents, fostering a sense of unity and pride.
In Krasnoyarsk, volunteers will distribute St. George ribbons in public places and during festive events. Residents can obtain their ribbons at the Public Support Headquarters, where the local party has organized the distribution efforts annually. "We have printed special memos to inform people how to properly wear the ribbons," noted Tatiana Yachmeneva, head of the Public Support Headquarters. She emphasized the significance of May 9, stating, "This date is sacred for all generations of Russians, symbolizing unbreakable national unity and heroism." The ribbons, colored like smoke and fire, serve as a poignant reminder of the courage displayed by the Russian people during the war.
The initiative kicked off in Krasnoyarsk with representatives from the "Young Guard of United Russia" distributing the first ribbons at bus stops. Maxim Podoynitsyn, a member of the youth organization, shared his personal connection to the day: "For me, the St. George ribbon is a symbol of our victory. Both of my grandfathers fought in the Great Patriotic War and reached Berlin, so for our family, May 9 is a sacred day. I consider participating in this action my duty. People take the ribbons with joy and pride." This sentiment echoes the broader goal of preserving historical memory, a priority of the party's program on historical remembrance.
Meanwhile, in Yoshkar-Ola, the St. George ribbon distribution will commence on April 25 and continue until May 9, 2025. The campaign, organized by the local youth group, will take place at the Central Park of Culture and Recreation, with specific times set for distribution. Ribbons will also be available at Lenin Square and Victory Boulevard during the final days leading up to Victory Day. This initiative not only commemorates the past but also engages the community in an act of collective remembrance.
In the southern region of Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, the first symbols of military glory were received by residents on April 24, 2025, in Victory Square and the square near the Chekhov Center. This marks the tenth year that the region has participated in this large-scale patriotic initiative, which will last until May 9. Over the next two weeks, volunteers are expected to distribute an impressive 70,000 ribbons across the region. More than 200 volunteers from the Victory Volunteers movement will be active in all municipalities, ensuring that everyone who wishes to receive a ribbon can do so.
Antonia Kirillova, head of the Sakhalin regional branch of the Victory Volunteers movement, highlighted the special significance of this year's campaign, stating, "In the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland, this action carries a special meaning: it is boundless gratitude to every hero who stood up to defend the interests of our country." She also reminded participants that the St. George ribbon should be worn with pride and respect, attached to the left side of jackets or coats, close to the heart. This symbol of honor and memory is set to become an integral part of the Victory Day celebrations for many islanders.
As the ribbon distribution continues across various regions, the collective spirit of remembrance is palpable. Each ribbon handed out represents not just a piece of fabric but a connection to history and a tribute to the sacrifices made by countless individuals during one of the most challenging periods in Russian history. The St. George ribbon serves as a unifying emblem, reminding all generations of the valor and resilience that defined their ancestors.
With the approach of May 9, communities are encouraged to participate in the celebrations, reflecting on the past while looking towards the future. The St. George ribbon initiative not only honors those who fought bravely but also invites younger generations to engage with their heritage, fostering a sense of pride and national identity.
