Visitors to the National Centre RUSSIA shared what Defender of the Fatherland Day means to them

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Defender of the Fatherland Day is a holiday that unites people of different ages, professions, and views. It remains a symbol of courage, honor, and love for the Motherland. Guests of the National Centre RUSSIA shared their personal views on the holiday.

"For me, Defender of the Fatherland Day is, first and foremost, a collective celebration for men who strive to perform the right and good deeds. And, of course, it's a holiday for military personnel who stand guard for all of us. We try to support them with our actions and work in the fields where we are professionals," said Nikita Logvinov, Attaché of the Embassy of Russia in Switzerland.

It's important for new generations to be true patriots of their Motherland, said Nadezhda Vlasova, Peace Ambassador of the Universal Peace Federation, and Deputy Chairman of the Interstate Union of Hero Cities and Cities of Military Glory of Russia.

"For me, Defender of the Fatherland Day is, above all, about patriotism. We strive to instill it in our youth through special commemorative events, screenings of patriotic films, truthful plays about war, and other activities," emphasized Nadezhda Vlasova.

Guests of the National Centre believe that families should tell children about the importance of defending their native country and contributing to its development.

"For our family, February 23 is a day when we tell our children about the importance of defending the Motherland. I try to convey to them that a defender is not only someone who serves in the army but also anyone who contributes to the development of their native country. My husband and I always congratulate my grandfather, who did not witness the Great Patriotic War himself but served as a pilot in the postwar years and shared many stories about his father's heroics with the children and grandchildren. So, for me, this holiday is a symbol of generational continuity," explained Maria Ignatova, a mother of two.

Visitors to the National Centre believe that February 23 is, above all, a day to express gratitude to the defenders of the Motherland.

"It's so important — not only through actions but also through kind words — to support those who guard our security. This holiday also reminds us that defenders are not only on the battlefield but also in everyday life: they are doctors, rescuers, teachers. We must value and respect their work," said Moscovite Olga Pavlova.

The National Centre RUSSIA will commemorate Defender of the Fatherland Day with the patriotic campaign #LETTERTOAHERO and a grand concert program. It will feature well-known artists, including singer Pelageya, the frontline band Zveroboy, and the world-renowned Russian National Ballet Kostroma.