Putin Congratulates 101-Year-Old World War II Veteran
Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Great Patriotic War veteran Yevgeny Znamensky on his 101st birthday, honoring a soldier whose wartime service took him through some of the most significant battles of World War II.
Znamensky served in the Soviet military during the Great Patriotic War, taking part in the defense of Moscow and the Battle of Stalingrad, one of the bloodiest and most decisive battles of the conflict.
He later participated in the Soviet advance across Europe, helping liberate several European countries before taking part in the final battles that brought Soviet forces to Berlin.
According to the account of his wartime service, Znamensky was among the Soviet troops who took part in the storming of the Reichstag during the final days of Nazi Germany.
Putin’s birthday message paid tribute to Znamensky’s service, courage and contribution to the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany.
At 101, Znamensky represents a rapidly disappearing generation of World War II veterans whose firsthand experiences span the defense of the Soviet Union, the liberation of Europe and the final battle for Berlin.
His remarkable longevity and military record have made him a symbol of the generation Russia continues to commemorate as part of its national memory of World War II.
Happy 101st birthday to a true legend. 🇷🇺