On May 9, 2023, Russia marked the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, commemorated with various events across the country, highlighting both solemn remembrance and joyous celebration of the nation’s history during World War II. This significant milestone has brought together diverse communities, fostering patriotism and unity among the citizens.
One of the notable events was held in Balakovo, where young police recruits participated in competitions as part of the "Young Police Friend" (Юный друг полиции) movement. The festival, organized with support from the Coordination Council for Youth Initiatives under the Ministry of Internal Affairs' Saratov region department, not only celebrated the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory but also the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland.
Over 500 schoolchildren, representing various educational institutions from Saratov Oblast, participated, showcasing skills and knowledge ranging from legal studies to survival tactics. According to Furkat Amirov, director of the Balakovo division of the 'DROZD' project, these activities aim at combining sports with patriotic education. He stated, "The Young Police Friend movement realizes complex tasks of patriotic education and leisure activities for young people. These competitions help us get stronger and find new friends."
Among the participants was Bilyal Bakhtiev, the captain of the team from the rural settlement of Novye Burasy, who expressed pride in being part of this initiative, stating, "Being part of the 'Young Police Friend' squad is a great honor. I plan to enroll in law school and dedicate my life to law enforcement activities." Events like these build character, responsibility, and camaraderie among the youth, fostering future generations.
Highlighting the unity of generations, representatives from veteran organizations also participated in various activities, showing their longstanding commitment to preserving the memories of the past. General Yuri Usynin and other veteran leaders discussed plans for cultural events commemorated throughout the year, strengthening ties between veterans and the community.
"Our volunteers not only engage actively with humanitarian missions—making items for fighters of the special military operation—but they also play central roles in organizing cultural and mass events. This year marks one of the most significant celebrations for all of us, and we aim to not neglect this historic event," explained Irina Vidina, regional coordinator of the senior generation party project.
Events organized focused on remembering the sacrifices made during the war, and these efforts resonate deeply, especially among the youth. Notably, the Balakovo festival featured various competitions such as shooting exhibitions and relays, building teamwork and sportsmanship among participants.
Awards were handed out, with prizes for top teams including monetary vouchers for sports goods. The events were not merely competitions but rather community galvanizations, aiming to instill pride and respect for the nation’s history and values.
The festivities extended across the region with similar events occurring nationally, including parades featuring war veterans and commemorations of fallen soldiers, fulfilling not only remembrance but also the celebration of courage and resilience.
Participation from corporate sponsors like 'PhosAgro' shows how private initiatives are coming together to support these events, focusing on developing youth through sport and education, ensuring they understand the importance of their heritage.
The sheer scale of celebrations signifies not just nostalgia but also future aspirations, as reflected by Amirov, who mentioned: "Events like these help not only to educate but build lasting friendships and community among the youth who will inherit the legacy of our ancestors."
Through efforts like the Young Police Friend movement and collaboration among veterans, the country is not just remembering its history, but also building frameworks for the future—a future founded on the ideals of courage, fellowship, and patriotic duty.
Events will continue throughout the year, emphasizing the significance of patriotism and the cooperative spirit among the younger and older generations, united by the shared goal of honoring the past and building upon it, ensuring every voice is heard, and every memory honored as Russia moves forward.