"True-Life Stories": veterans of the special military operation address residents of Yugra

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An enlightening meeting, organised by the Russian society Znanie, took place as part of the opening of the National Centre RUSSIA in the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area — Yugra. Lecturers from the society Znanie, veterans of the special military operation, held the meeting with the audience in an open dialogue format.

Pavel Rusin, Lieutenant Colonel, participant in the federal programme "Time of Heroes", shared memories of his childhood, explained why he decided to become a military officer, and emphasised the importance of such qualities as courage, patriotism, and loyalty to the Fatherland. He has been awarded the Order of Courage and the medal "For Valour" for his combat merits.

Pavel Rusin also spoke about his participation in the "Time of Heroes" programme. Since July, he has been undergoing an internship in the government of Yugra under the guidance of his mentor — the region's Governor, Ruslan Kukharuk. The intern’s focus was on issues of supporting the military personnel, patriotic upbringing, and regional security.

"Actually, I learned about the programme by chance — my junior comrades told me about it. Life goes on, we get older, and while such an opportunity exists, especially since the state allows us to receive additional education in the field of State and Municipal Administration, we need to take it. Being mentored by the Governor of Yugra is a great responsibility, it offers great opportunities and, accordingly, entails high demands. It pushes you to value every bit, every opportunity to gain more and more knowledge," said Pavel Rusin.

Residents of Yugra were also addressed by Ruslan Vakhitov, participant in the "Heroes of Yugra" project and recipient of the Order of Courage. Since the start of the special military operation in 2022, he volunteered for the front line, for two years was there in the position of a cook, participated in assault operations, the formation of defensive lines, and instructed the mobilised personnel. He shared memories of what army daily life is like, what tasks he had to perform on the front, spoke about combat brotherhood, and explained how important friendship and mutual respect are "behind the ribbon".

The lecturer said that upon returning from the combat zone, he became a participant in the "Heroes of Yugra" project, and also actively holds meetings with the younger generation, where he speaks with them about patriotism and preserving historical memory.

"I applied for the training while on the front line, using my phone. I had an understanding that I would soon be discharged, so I made up my mind and registered for the project. I had no idea of whether I would get in or not. This project is, first and foremost, new knowledge, competencies, and most importantly — it is our team, which has now united, it is my friends: male and female ones. It is new acquaintances and opportunities," said Ruslan Vakhitov.

During the open dialogue, the speakers also noted the importance of support from family and loved ones during the adaptation period, shared their own ways of coping with stress, and explained what brings them joy and a sense of satisfaction at present.

"Znanie.Heroes" is an enlightening project of the Russian society Znanie, launched with the aim of instilling in the younger generations a sense of pride in the country, its great past and heroic present.

Branches of the National Centre RUSSIA are opening in all regions of the country by order of the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin. The main mission of this project is to demonstrate the unity and achievements of our country. Yesterday, the National Centre RUSSIA opened in the Krasnoyarsk region, and today — in the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area – Yugra. Through multimedia expositions, guests of the national centre will get acquainted with the culture, nature, and economic potential of Yugra. Tours can be taken free of charge by pre-registration on the website.