In a significant move to honor the veterans of the Great Patriotic War, the administration of the city presented the "80 Years of Victory" medals on March 20, 2025. These medals are designed to be awarded to veterans, their families, and several other deserving individuals, including former prisoners of concentration camps and residents of besieged Leningrad. A total of 306 commemorative badges will be distributed, with a personalized approach to ensure that the recognition reaches each participant directly.
Natalia Zhigacheva, the Deputy Head of the city administration, noted the urgency in delivering these medals to the veterans. "Every minute is crucial to congratulate our respected veterans. Therefore, the medal presentation has been scheduled departmentally, with staff delivering them personally to each participant," she stated. This initiative ensures the significance of the occasion is respected and that veterans feel honored for their contributions and sacrifices.
Moreover, in line with the recent decree from the President of Russia, financial support will be provided to a variety of categories by May 9. Veterans and disabled veterans will receive 80,000 rubles, while other groups—such as residents of besieged Leningrad and former minor prisoners of fascism—will be awarded 55,000 and 80,000 rubles respectively. Additional support from the regional budget includes 50,000 rubles for war participants and disabled veterans, and smaller amounts for widows and war children, showing a concerted effort from the government to honor these individuals.
As part of the medal distribution, food packages and congratulatory cards from the President of the Russian Federation, the Governor of the Yaroslavl Region, and the Head of Rybinsk will accompany the medals. Experts urge relatives to be aware that there will be no phone calls regarding payments, emphasizing that these will occur in a proactive manner directly to designated bank accounts or postal facilities.
In addition to the medal ceremony, the Museum of Victory announced a unique competition to engage people of all ages in artistic expression commemorating Victory Day, which takes place annually on May 9. This year marks the 80th anniversary of victory, and the theme for the International Drawing Competition "Postcard of Victory" is "The Path to Victory". Participants are invited to create festive postcards that encapsulate the military feats of the Red Army.
The competition aims to capture the essence of the Great Patriotic War, encouraging artists to depict scenes of significant battles, portrayals of renowned commanders, or even front-line life moments. Works reflecting the historical impact of the war and the valiant efforts of soldiers will be accepted, further connecting the younger generation to the stories of the past.
Participants can submit their drawings in any artistic technique, including oil, watercolor, pencils, and more, until April 14. The jury will assess the entries based on artistic concept, emotional depth, originality, and overall execution. The competition spans five age categories, ensuring that everyone, from children to adults, has an opportunity to contribute.
All entries received will be featured in a virtual exhibition launching on April 24, 2025. This exhibition will allow internet users to choose their favorite designs and send them as e-cards to loved ones along with personal Victory Day messages. Additionally, audience voting will determine the “Audience Choice Award,” highlighting the most popular artwork chosen by the public.
The culmination of the competition will take place on April 30, with certificates awarded to all participants. Moreover, the top entries selected by an expert jury will be featured in a special limited series of postcards. Winning participants will also be invited to an awards ceremony at the Museum of Victory, where they will receive collector's postcards and prizes.
Both commemorative events—the medal presentation and postcard competition—underscore the importance of remembering those who served during the Great Patriotic War. They reflect a communal spirit of gratitude and recognition that continues to thrive, ensuring that the sacrifices of veterans and the histories of the past remain alive in the hearts of future generations.
