Friday, May 4, 2012

Victory Day


Victory Day is one of the biggest holidays in Russia. This holiday marks the victory over Nazi Germany, in which the Soviet Union suffered by some accounts 25 million casualties. 
Sailors in the 1945 Victory Day parade

Throughout the country the day is marked by parades of military units. This includes the navy. 

Victory Day parade 2010
It is a common sight to see the veterans of the war out in their uniforms. The black and orange ribbon is a sign of remembrance for those that did not return home from the war. Every one in the area of the former Soviet Union was affected by the war. They either lost loved ones and/or were in territory occupied by the Germans. 


The military units that participate in the parade are chosen for their outstanding performance. They practice for weeks ahead of the parade in Moscow.  It is considered a great honor for the soldiers and sailors who take part in the parade. 


For those who have never seen parts of the parade, here is a video. 

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