Official website of the President of Russia

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The message reads, in part:

“Years will pass, and decades will go by, but May 9 will always remain the most important, sacred holiday in Russia. Every Russian family will always be genuinely proud of the heroes of the Great Patriotic War who saved the world from Nazism and secured the gift of life for future generations. Moscow militia members and Red Army soldiers from Moscow who bravely fought at the front will forever remain among the defenders of the Fatherland.

I think this unique project fulfils a noble mission of preserving the memory of the war and is an important initiative Russia needs. The veterans’ memories collected in the archive, their stories about the dramatic events of the most brutal war of the 20^th century, the rare photographs and documents are of exceptional historical, moral and human value. They are evidence of the unparalleled courage shown by the soldiers and commanders of the Red Army, their selfless love for their Fatherland, their unbending will and generous spirit. And of course, the publication of the Word of the Soldier of Victory archive will become a major, remarkable event as part of the celebration of the 80^th anniversary of the Battle of Moscow.

I am confident that such projects as your archive are very much needed today. They ensure the continuity of the traditions of patriotism and personal responsibility for the fate of our Fatherland and help educate young people.”

Mos.ru, the official website of the Mayor and the Moscow Government, has launched the Word of the Soldier of Victory project. Visitors can browse through the memoirs of Great Patriotic War veterans who now live in Moscow, read their biographies, and view photos and videos.