"It was like coming home": SMO veterans visited the "Journey Across Russia" exposition
An excursion for veterans of the special military operation through the multimedia exposition "Journey Across Russia" took place at the National Centre RUSSIA. The event was held as part of a meeting with Anna Tsivileva, chairwoman of the "Defenders of the Fatherland" foundation, on July 25, which brought together representatives of the country's traditional religions to discuss issues of supporting SMO participants and their families.
German Shevchuk, a participant in the special military operation, shared his emotions from visiting the exposition.
"This excursion is something more than just viewing displays. Words seem unnecessary here — the experiences are so powerful. You literally immerse yourself in each region, in its unique nature and culture. This is a journey that will leave no one indifferent. I will definitely return here with my family — I want them to feel this powerful energy too. Each location is unique in its own way and leaves an indelible mark on the soul," emphasised German Shevchuk.
A veteran from the Zabaykalsky region, Aldar Badmayev, also shared his impressions:
"I am from the village of Aginskoye. This excursion became a real gift for me — as if I managed to visit home for a while. I was especially touched that khurde from our Buddhist datsan are represented here. The place seemed amazingly familiar and native. All my ancestors are from Zabaykalye, and for us Buddhism has always been not just a religion, but a way of life. It does not deny the necessity of defending one's home. As Buddha said: when there are external enemies, one must defend one's state and one's interests. All my grandfathers fought, and I could not stand aside when it was necessary to stand up for the defence of the Motherland," shared Aldar Badmayev.
Anna Tsivileva's meeting with religious leaders and SMO veterans at the National Centre RUSSIA became an important step in strengthening interfaith dialogue and supporting defenders of the Fatherland.
"I held a meeting with representatives of traditional religions of Russia. We have already interacted with many of them and implemented projects. Our heroes and their loved ones were also present. It is precisely they who are the centre of uniting spiritual and moral values, confessions, and all of society. The main task, and this is our strength, is the consolidation of joint efforts and possibilities. Any successes, any victories are realised only in the unity of the people," noted the State Secretary — Deputy Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation.
The "Journey Across Russia" exposition, which the event participants visited, represents a large-scale multimedia project introducing visitors to the cultural and natural diversity of all federal districts of our country. Visiting the exposition tour is free of charge, by advance booking on the National Centre RUSSIA website in the "Events" section.
