The National Centre RUSSIA extends congratulations on Airborne Forces Day
2 August marks Airborne Forces Day in Russia, a national observance that brings together serving personnel of the Airborne Forces, veterans, their families and all those who honour the history of the Russian Armed Forces. The date commemorates a milestone in the history of the Airborne Forces: on 2 August 1930, during military exercises of the Moscow Military District near Voronezh, a group of paratroopers carried out the first airborne landing, marking the birth of this branch of the armed forces.
The Airborne Forces are widely regarded as one of the elite branches of the Russian Armed Forces. They are distinguished by their high level of training, their ability to operate in the most demanding conditions and their unwavering commitment to military duty. Their motto, "Nobody But Us!", has long become a symbol of responsibility, courage and readiness to come to the aid of others.
Over the decades, Airborne Forces personnel have taken part in a wide range of military operations and peacekeeping missions, demonstrating professionalism and dedication. Today, members of the Airborne Forces continue to carry out key tasks in safeguarding the country's national interests.
Airborne Forces Day has also developed its own long-standing traditions. Across the country, the occasion is marked by ceremonial formations, veterans' reunions, wreath-laying ceremonies at military monuments and memorials, military demonstrations, concerts and patriotic events. For many former servicemen, 2 August is an opportunity to meet former comrades, recall their years of service and honour the memory of those who lost their lives.
The National Centre RUSSIA places great importance on preserving the memory of the defenders of the Motherland and promoting patriotic education among younger generations. It regularly hosts initiatives and projects dedicated to the country's history, the heroic deeds of its heroes and the continuity of generations. One such initiative is the #LetterToAHero campaign, which gives every visitor the opportunity to write messages of support to participants in the special military operation. The letters are folded into the traditional wartime triangular format before being delivered to service personnel at the front. Another initiative, "A Car for the Front", invites visitors to leave messages of support on a specially designated vehicle, which is then sent to the special military operation zone once the campaign has concluded.
As part of the "Heirs of the Victors" project, organised jointly with the Defenders of the Fatherland Foundation, multimedia screens at the National Centre RUSSIA displayed photographs of veterans of the Great Patriotic War alongside their descendants who are participating in the special military operation. The project symbolised the continuity of generations and the enduring tradition of service to the Motherland.
The National Centre also hosts the All-Russian Patriotic Forum, the "St George Ribbon" and "Red Carnation" campaigns, as well as theatrical performances and educational and cultural projects dedicated to the history of Russia and the heroic deeds of its defenders. These initiatives help preserve historical memory, foster respect for those who have defended the Motherland and strengthen the bond between generations.
Airborne Forces Day is a reminder of the men and women for whom duty, honour and service to the Motherland have become a lifelong calling. Preserving these traditions and maintaining respect for history helps strengthen the connection between generations, which remains one of the foundations of Russian society.
