Memory. Honor and Deeds. Meeting with SMO heroes at Naberezhnye Chelny State Pedagogical University to mark Day of Heroes of Motherland

December 9th is a special day in Russia; the country marks the Day of Heroes of
Motherland. It was established in 2007 on the initiative from the lawmakers. This
day became the symbol of the respect and recognition of the deeds accomplished
by our ancestors; it also serves as a tribute to the memory of the heroes who are
now living. On this day, we honor the memory of the Heroes of the Soviet Union,
the Heroes of the Russian Federation, those who received the Order of Saint
George and the Order of Fame.
During the event, the students of the Faculty of Physical Culture and Sports
together with Irek Gilmutdinov, associate professor, organized a meeting with real
heroes – the participants of a SMO Timur Nusratov and Vladimir Tikhomirov.
Their stories inspired the students and reminded them of a value of courage and
self-sacrifice.
Timur Nusratov was born in Naberezhney Chelny. Despite the problem with his
vision, he participated in the militia in the Crimea and then was sent to the zone of
SMO. After the harsh battles, he was wounded and decommissioned to reserve.
Vladimir Tikhonov has a similar story: he took part in the battles near Ugledar,
was wounded several times and then got decommissioned.
The students asked them questions about the life on the front. Timur also shared
his experience of an activity as a volunteer: he has just come from the SMO zone
while taking aid supply for the soldiers. He thanked all for the support. The next
humanitarian aid is planned to be sent on December 15-16; Timur and his team are
collecting the necessary things: medicine, sweets and even a motorbike.
One of the most touching moments was the gift to the students: it was a badge
taken from a Ukrainian military uniform and a flag which used to be attached to a
tank. This flag was a symbol of the connection between the front and the rear; a
remembrance of a possible contribution to the common cause.
The stories of the heroes inspired the students to think about heroism, what it
means; and also inspired them to take action. They learnt how to support each
other and be part of the common cause.
Irek Gilmutdinov supports the soldiers on the front: he and his family are making
special candles and evacuation slings. He also helps to collect and send
humanitarian aid to the SMO zone.
The Day of Heroes of Motherland is both a memory about the past and an
opportunity for the future generations to take responsibility for their country and
their friends. Let the memory about the heroes live in our hearts and their deeds
serve us examples of courage and resilience.