In a heartfelt move to honor the brave participants of the Great Patriotic War, new legislative actions are underway across Russia, celebrating the sacrifices made by veterans during a pivotal moment in history. Recent announcements from various regions, particularly Kamchatka and Ryazan, highlight the government’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding the valor of those who served.
On March 20, 2025, the Legislative Assembly of the Kamchatka region passed a significant law that grants all participants of the Great Patriotic War the title of Honorary Resident. This initiative, proposed by the region's head and supported unanimously by the deputies, aims to acknowledge the dwindling number of veterans who fought valiantly during the war. Presently, there are only three veterans remaining in Kamchatka: Vladislav Leonidovich Vershanskiy, born in 1930; Grigory Nikolaevich Storozhenko, who turns 100 this year; and Konstantin Vasilyevich Usevich, born in 1932.
Commenting on this commendable recognition, representatives from the Kamchatka Legislative Assembly stated, "The Honorable Residents of the Kamchatka Territory will receive a one-time payment of 300,000 rubles.” This new law marks a shift from previous regulations, which allowed only one individual to receive the Honorary title annually, now enabling several deserving veterans to be recognized each year for their valor and exceptional service.
Meanwhile, in Ryazan, another significant recognition took place. Anastasia Mikhailovna Stepovaya, a veteran who experienced the brutalities of wartime firsthand, was awarded the title of Honorary Citizen of the City of Ryazan by the Moscow Prefecture and the Ryazan City Duma. Her remarkable story—having spent months imprisoned in a fascist camp and later engaging in partisan activities—epitomizes the courage and dedication shown by countless individuals during the war. The decision to grant her this title, alongside 25 other veterans and disabled participants, was reached in a dedicated meeting of the Ryazan City Duma the same day the laws were enacted in Kamchatka.
"The decision to award the title of Honorary Citizen of the City of Ryazan for courage and dedication in defense of the Fatherland to 26 participants and disabled veterans of the Great Patriotic War was made at a meeting of the Ryazan City Duma,” reported by the city administration. These actions exemplify a nationwide effort to assure that the heroic deeds of veterans are not forgotten.
At the heart of these initiatives is President Vladimir Putin, who has strongly advocated for honoring veterans across Russia. During a meeting of the organizing committee for the 80th Anniversary of Victory Day, he stated, "I consider it necessary to support the initiative of the Ministry of Defense to award all our front-line soldiers, participants of the Great Patriotic War, the title of ‘Honorary Citizen’ of the region, city, or municipality. I know that many already have this status. But, I repeat, every veteran who fought with weapons in hand deserves it.”
Putin further elaborated on the importance of engaging with veterans on a personal level, emphasizing their critical role in the celebrations next year. "They, their needs, deserve the most attentive and heartfelt attention,” he continued, urging local governors and mayors to make time to meet with veterans directly.
In addition to these prestigious titles, Putin’s presidency has also assured financial assistance for veterans. He signed a decree stipulating that veterans and their widows, along with juvenile prisoners of concentration camps, would receive a one-time payment of 80,000 rubles. Furthermore, dedicated financial support is designated for home front workers, adults released from concentration camps, and those involved in constructing defense structures, which will receive 55,000 rubles each.
These efforts reflect a growing acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by World War II veterans. As their numbers decline, the urgency to ensure that their stories and contributions are recognized only intensifies. As Kamchatka and Ryazan exemplify, the recognition of these veterans goes far beyond titles; it is a profound acknowledgment of their place in history and society.
In conclusion, the actions taken by the Russian government to honor Great Patriotic War veterans through legislative changes and financial support highlight a nationwide commitment to preserving their legacy. As the remaining veterans age, the collective memory of their bravery must be preserved and celebrated, ensuring that future generations understand and value their sacrifices. The recent measures are a heartening step towards that objective, paving the way for a more respectful and grateful recognition of heroes from an indispensable chapter of the nation's history.
