A solemn ceremony took place on Victory Square with the numerous participation of relatives and friends of the newly-made paratroopers.
Addressing the servicemen and parents, the Chairman of the Regional Executive Committee, Alexander Subbotin, congratulated them on one of the most important events in every man's life.
– Today, the guardsmen continue the rich traditions and heroic past of their predecessors. We know many examples of conscientious fulfillment of military duty. History testifies to the courage, heroism, patriotism of paratroopers, their devotion to their Motherland, high professionalism, and there is no doubt that the new contingent of soldiers will contribute to ensuring the military security of our country, – emphasized Alexander Subbotin.
Colonel Alexey Yelfimov, Deputy Commander of the Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces, congratulated the recruits on taking the oath:
– You will always be at the forefront of the attack, carrying out tasks that other troops and military formations cannot perform. The Motherland has no better soldiers than you, – stated Alexey Yelfimov and wished the parents patience – your sons will soon return home.
Valerian Matskevich, Chairman of the regional organization of the Belarusian Union of Afghan War Veterans, noted that the young men had the great honor of serving in a renowned unit that distinguished itself during the Great Patriotic War and in providing international assistance to Afghanistan. The brigade is still considered the best in the Armed Forces today.
– You will have to learn the airborne science of victory to repel any aggressor who encroaches on the Republic of Belarus, – concluded the veteran of the unit.
On behalf of the parents, Olga Kamovich spoke, calling the event a festive and exciting day for herself and her son.
– I am proud that my son is a paratrooper. I am grateful to the officers who helped my son quickly adapt to the difficult rules of army life, master the basics of combat training, and I see how much he has matured over this month, – said Olga Kamovich and addressed all the servicemen: – While in military service, always remember that we love you and are waiting for you at home.
The State Anthem of Belarus was played, and the servicemen marched in a solemn procession past the monument to the liberator soldiers. After surrendering their weapons, their first leave and meeting with their parents awaited them.