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Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon.

We are currently marking the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the title of Hero of the Soviet Union. All those awarded that decoration are undoubtedly people of the highest probity, like Heroes of Labour and Heroes of Russia. We feel proud of them, follow their example, name streets and squares after them. They enjoy a tremendous and well-earned prestige among our people. Every one of them has performed a feat in their life – military or labour. A feat in the name of their people, for the sake of the freedom and prosperity of their Motherland.

It is a great honour for me to be here with you on this occasion in this audience today.

Our land has given birth to splendid warriors, pioneers and trail-blazers at all times. It has produced and reared worthy sons and daughters of the Motherland. Their heroic deeds and accomplishments are dotted throughout a thousand-year-long history of Russia.

The traditions of devoted service to the Motherland are rooted in the very character of our multi-ethnic Russian people. We built our common home together, strengthened the country’s might and, if necessary, defended it side by side.

That is why we see in the serried ranks of heroes both soldiers of the Great Patriotic War and those who fought in Afghanistan, who saw action in hot spots and who upheld Russia’s integrity and unity, those who are now fighting against international terrorism. And, of course, who selflessly opened up new lands, built towns and cities, cultivated grain and mined coal.

Of course, we understand that the real heroes are being born in our land constantly. And naturally their numbers are far greater than the official statistics given by the state. But real heroes do not perform their exploits for rewards. Patriotism and faithfulness to duty and honour are now as sacred as before. Our contemporaries storm outer space, save people, and boldly cross the path of criminals and bandits. They safeguard and strengthen Russia.

The Motherland honours its heroes and will always keep the memory of those who have been conferred that lofty title. Especially those who received it after their deaths. A feat performed by one individual can and has raised the moral spirits of millions many times in the history of our country.

I am convinced: as long as Russia has such heroes – at war and in peace – the country is assured of its security, has the necessary conditions for development, and has a future.

I was just now told that the veterans’ council, the Moscow government, those who arranged today’s event, have a planned series of measures of this kind, dedicated to the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the title of Hero of the Soviet Union. And all this is taking place ahead of the 60th anniversary of the Soviet people’s victory in the Great Patriotic War.

I want to thank all who care, who remember and who organise things like that. I assure you that the state will never forget those who have performed a feat of valour in the name of the Fatherland.

I congratulate you and wish you the best of all. Thank you very much.