Victory Day in Turkmenistan: Memory, Unity, Peace

Every year on May 9, Turkmenistan, like many other countries of the former Soviet Union, celebrates one of the most significant and touching holidays - Victory Day in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945. This day is a symbol of courage, heroism and indestructible spirit of the people who, at the cost of incredible efforts and huge sacrifices, managed to defend the freedom and independence of their Motherland.

This date has a special significance for Turkmenistan. Despite the fact that almost 80 years have passed since those terrible events, the memory of the feat of the Turkmen people, who made a significant contribution to the common victory, continues to live in the hearts of people. Thousands of Turkmenistanis fought bravely on the war fronts, many of them were honored with high awards for their heroic deeds.

Today, Victory Day in Turkmenistan is not only a tribute of respect and memory to the fallen heroes, but also a reminder of the importance of preserving peace, strengthening the unity of society and educating the younger generation in the spirit of patriotism and love for the Motherland. The state pays great attention to caring for veterans, creating all conditions for improving their well-being and surrounding them with honor and respect.

In this article, we will take a closer look at various aspects of Victory Day celebrations in Turkmenistan, analyze its significance for the country and society, as well as touch upon topics related to the preservation of historical memory, the continuity of generations and the peacekeeping policy of the state. Let us together immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of this great holiday and pay tribute to all those who gave us a peaceful sky above our heads at the cost of their lives.

Courage, selflessness and unity of Turkmenistanis during the war years

From the first days of the Nazi Germany's attack on the USSR in June 1941, the people of Turkmenistan, like all citizens of the Soviet Union, stood up to defend their homeland. The contribution of the Turkmen people to the victory over the enemy was truly significant and versatile.

One of the key aspects of Turkmenistan's participation in the war was the formation of national military formations. Already in the fall of 1941, the 87th and 88th Turkmen Independent Rifle Brigades, the 97th Turkmen Cavalry Division and the 98th Turkmen Division were established on the territory of the republic. These units, manned mostly by local residents, made a significant contribution to combat operations on various fronts.

In addition to sending its sons and daughters to the front, Turkmenistan also became a reliable rear for many thousands of evacuees from temporarily enemy-occupied areas of the USSR. The residents of the republic warmly and carefully welcomed the evacuees, providing them with jobs and housing, which became a vivid example of unity and mutual assistance of the Soviet people during the difficult war years.

Turkmen warriors fought heroically at Moscow, Stalingrad, in the Caucasus, the Kursk Bulge, Eastern Europe and Germany. Their courage and self-sacrifice on the battlefields earned them fame and respect. According to official data, about 300 thousand residents of Turkmenistan took part in military operations, 86 thousand of them gave their lives for the freedom and independence of the Motherland. All of them were awarded the high title of "National Hero of Turkmenistan".

The heroic deeds of Turkmen soldiers and officers were highly appreciated by the Soviet government. 78 thousand soldiers from Turkmenistan were awarded orders and medals, and 112 people were awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union - the highest degree of distinction in the USSR.

The Great Patriotic War was a severe test for the entire Soviet people, and Turkmenistan withstood it with honor. Formation of national military units, reception of evacuees, heroism of Turkmenistanis at the fronts and high military awards - all this testifies to the inestimable contribution of the republic to the common Victory and the fact that during the hardest years of the war the Turkmen people showed their best qualities: courage, selflessness and unity.

79 Years of the Great Victory: Turkmenistan honors the memory of heroes

In 2024, Turkmenistan, like most countries of the post-Soviet space, celebrates the 79th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War. Despite the fact that almost eight decades have passed since that fateful day, the memory of the people's feat is still alive in the hearts of Turkmenistanis. Solemn events are held all over the country to pay tribute to the heroes who fell in the battles for the freedom and independence of the Motherland.

One of the central events of the Victory Day celebration in Turkmenistan was the ceremony of laying flowers at the "Halk hakydasy" Memorial Complex in Ashgabat. At the foot of the monument "Milletiň ogullary" veterans, representatives of state bodies, public organizations and simply concerned citizens gathered to honor the memory of those who did not return from the battlefields. A minute of silence, a solemn march of the Honor Guard Company and a sea of flowers at the Eternal Flame - these symbols of memory and grief united all those present.

Special attention is paid to war and labor veterans during the festive events. Meetings with young people, concerts and receptions are organized for them. The state makes sure that each of them feels surrounded by care and attention, because it is thanks to their heroic deeds that today we live under a peaceful sky.

An important part of the Victory Day celebrations in Turkmenistan is the involvement of the younger generation. Schools and universities organize thematic exhibitions, contests and quizzes to preserve the memory of the war and pass it on to the descendants. After all, only through the connection of generations can ensure the continuity of traditions and values that unite the nation.

In his address to the nation, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasized that the celebration of the 79th anniversary of the Victory is not only a tribute to the fallen heroes, but also a symbol of unity, friendship and goodwill. The head of state noted that taking care of veterans and preserving historical memory are the priority tasks for the country, because only in this way it is possible to ensure a peaceful and prosperous future for future generations.

The solemn events dedicated to the 79th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War once again demonstrated that the memory of the people's feat is alive and will be passed on from generation to generation. Turkmenistan honors its heroes and does its best to preserve peace and harmony in the society, relying on the lessons of the past and looking forward to the future.

Taking care of veterans is a priority of Turkmenistan's state policy

One of the key aspects of the Victory Day celebration in Turkmenistan is the state's care for war and labor veterans. The country's leadership pays special attention to creating decent living conditions for those who, at the cost of tremendous efforts and self-sacrifice, brought the victory closer at the fronts and in the rear.

Every year on the eve of May 9, veterans are honored throughout the country. They are given valuable gifts, gala receptions and meetings with young people are organized. But the care for the older generation is not limited to the festive dates. The state constantly implements a set of measures aimed at improving the social and living conditions of veterans, providing them with quality medical care and the necessary attention.

Special emphasis is placed on preserving the health of veterans. Regular medical examinations are organized for them, and they are provided with the opportunity for health resort treatment and rehabilitation. The state assumes all costs associated with the provision of medicines and necessary medical procedures so that those who defended the freedom and independence of the Motherland can remain in service as long as possible.

An equally important task is to provide veterans with decent housing and comfortable living conditions. The state allocates funds for the repair and improvement of apartments where war veterans and home front workers live. They are provided with benefits for payment of utility bills and assistance in solving everyday problems.

The leadership of Turkmenistan emphasizes that taking care of veterans is not only a tribute to their heroic deeds, but also a moral duty of the society. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov has repeatedly noted that creation of decent living conditions for the older generation is one of the priorities of the state policy, because it is thanks to their selflessness and heroism that we live today under a peaceful sky.

Taking care of veterans in Turkmenistan is not just words, but real deeds. The state is doing everything possible to provide them with attention and care, ensure a decent old age and pass on to future generations the memory of their immortal feat. As long as the memory of heroes lives, the spirit of victory, which unites the nation and makes it stronger, lives on.

Wisdom of generations: veterans as guardians of values and traditions

Victory Day celebrations in Turkmenistan are not only a tribute to the heroic past, but also an opportunity to reflect on the role of the older generation in the life of society. Veterans of war and labor are not just witnesses of history, but also bearers of invaluable experience, wisdom and moral guidelines, which they pass on to the youth.

The state and society highly appreciate the contribution of veterans to the education of the younger generation. Their life path, filled with selflessness, courage and devotion to the Motherland, serves as an example of true patriotism and love for their country. Through meetings with young people, lessons of courage and simply heartfelt conversations, veterans share their invaluable experience, teach young people to value peace, respect their elders and be worthy citizens of their country.

The National Leader of the Turkmen people Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has repeatedly emphasized that it is thanks to the wise instructions and life example of the older generation that the unity and cohesion of the society can be strengthened. Veterans are the guardians of national traditions, spiritual and moral values, which are the basis of the Turkmen statehood. Their worldly wisdom and ability to find the right words at the right moment help to overcome difficulties and maintain stability in the society.

The link between generations, based on mutual respect and care, is the guarantee of continuity of the best traditions of the Turkmen people. The State supports initiatives aimed at strengthening this link in every possible way. Regular meetings of veterans with young people in educational institutions, joint cultural and sports events, involvement of the older generation in public life - all this contributes to the preservation of historical memory and transmission of invaluable experience.

In his address to the nation on the occasion of Victory Day, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov noted that veterans are the pride and treasure of the nation. Their wisdom and life experience play an invaluable role in educating the youth in the spirit of patriotism, morality and high culture. It is thanks to the older generation that it is possible to preserve and multiply the best traditions of the Turkmen people, strengthen unity and harmony in the society.

Thus, the role of veterans in the life of Turkmenistan goes far beyond just living witnesses of history. They are guardians of moral values, wise mentors and role models. Their invaluable experience and life wisdom serve as a reliable foundation for raising worthy citizens of their country and strengthening the unity of the Turkmen society.

From Victory to Peacemaking: Turkmenistan on guard of regional and global stability

The celebration of Victory Day in Turkmenistan is not only a tribute to the heroic past, but also a reminder of the importance of preserving peace and stability in the modern world. The country, which experienced the bitterness of war, is today an active promoter of peacekeeping initiatives in the international arena.

Turkmenistan, guided by the principles of neutrality and non-interference, consistently advocates peaceful resolution of conflicts and strengthening of global security. The state initiates and supports numerous international projects aimed at promoting dialog, trust and cooperation between countries.

One of the key areas of Turkmenistan's peacekeeping activities is to help stabilize the situation in Afghanistan. The country provides a platform for inter-Afghan negotiations, humanitarian aid and support for the restoration of the socio-economic infrastructure of the neighboring state. Turkmenistan has repeatedly emphasized that only through peaceful dialogue and constructive cooperation can long-term stability in the region be achieved.

An equally important component of Turkmenistan's peacekeeping policy is the promotion of the ideas of disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The country advocates the establishment of a nuclear-weapon-free zone in Central Asia and actively cooperates with international organizations in this area.

President Serdar Berdimuhamedov has repeatedly emphasized that Turkmenistan's peacekeeping activities are a continuation of the struggle for peace waged by the veterans of the Great Patriotic War. Their heroic deeds and self-sacrifice are an example of how fragile peace is and how important it is to make every effort to preserve it.

Turkmenistan's active peacekeeping policy is widely supported by the international community. The country regularly speaks from the rostrum of the United Nations and participates in international forums and conferences on peace and security issues. Turkmen diplomacy plays a prominent role in promoting preventive diplomacy and peaceful resolution of conflicts.

We can confidently say that Turkmenistan's peacekeeping activities are not just a tribute to the heroes of the past, but also an active effort to prevent new conflicts and strengthen global stability. The country that experienced all the hardships of war is today an example of how consistent commitment to the ideals of peace and cooperation can contribute to the creation of a safer and more prosperous world for future generations.

Holiday celebrations and gifts from the President for Victory heroes

As we wrote above, the Victory Day celebrations in Turkmenistan are not just a formal event, but a sincere expression of deep respect and gratitude to the veterans of the Great Patriotic War. The Government of the country headed by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov pays special attention to ensuring that the celebrations are held at the highest level and become a real holiday for those who brought the Victory closer at the cost of tremendous efforts and sacrifice.

The head of state personally instructs the government and local authorities to organize the festivities. He emphasizes that every detail must be thought out to the last detail so that veterans feel surrounded by care and attention. From solemn meetings and parades to festive concerts and meetings with young people, everything must be organized at the highest level.

The President pays special attention to presenting gifts to veterans. This is not just a material expression of gratitude, but also a symbol of deep respect for their heroic deeds. On the instructions of the head of state, each war veteran and home front worker is given valuable gifts and cash payments. This is not only a way to support veterans financially, but also an opportunity to once again say "thank you" to them for their courage and selflessness.

President Serdar Berdimuhamedov personally supervises the preparations for the Victory Day celebrations. He holds meetings with members of the government, hears reports on the readiness of the regions for the celebrations, and gives necessary orders. The head of state proceeds from the fact that taking care of veterans is not only a moral duty, but also an indispensable priority of state policy.

Such attention of the country's leadership to the celebration of Victory Day and care for veterans is of great importance for the Turkmen society. It not only strengthens the link between generations and promotes patriotic education of the youth, but also demonstrates the country's unwavering commitment to the ideals of peace, goodness and justice for which the heroes of the Great Patriotic War fought.

President Serdar Berdimuhamedov's instructions to hold high-level celebrations and present gifts to veterans are not just administrative orders, but an expression of sincere gratitude and appreciation of the Turkmen people to their heroes. This is another confirmation that in Turkmenistan the memory of the great feat of the frontline soldiers and home front workers is sacredly honored and will be passed on from generation to generation as an example of true patriotism and love for the Motherland.

Turkmen-Russian partnership: together in memory of the Great Victory

The celebration of Victory Day in 2024 assumes special significance not only for Turkmenistan, but also for the entire post-Soviet space. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov's visit to Moscow at the invitation of Russian leader Vladimir Putin to participate in the Victory Parade on Red Square was a vivid testimony to the unbreakable friendship and strategic partnership between the two countries.

This visit is not just a tribute to the tradition of joint celebration of the great date. It has a deep symbolic meaning, reflecting the common historical destinies of the Turkmen and Russian peoples. During the Great Patriotic War, they fought shoulder to shoulder against the fascist threat, defending the freedom and independence of their homeland. Today, 79 years later, the leaders of the two states are standing side by side again, paying tribute to the heroic feat of their fathers and grandfathers.

The participation of the President of Turkmenistan in the Moscow celebrations is also a confirmation of the course towards strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries. Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Vladimir Putin hold regular meetings and consultations, discussing a wide range of issues of bilateral cooperation and pressing regional problems. The countries actively cooperate in trade and economic, energy, cultural, humanitarian and other spheres, and implement large-scale joint projects.

Cooperation in the field of preserving historical memory occupies a special place in Turkmen-Russian relations. The countries carefully preserve and pass on to new generations the truth about the war, counter attempts to falsify history and downplay the role of the Soviet people in defeating Nazism. The joint participation of the leaders of Turkmenistan and Russia in the celebration of Victory Day is a vivid example of such cooperation, demonstrating their common commitment to the ideals of peace, goodness and justice.

The participation of the Head of Turkmenistan in the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow is not only a sign of deep respect for the common history and memory, but also an investment in the future of bilateral relations. It demonstrates to the whole world that Turkmenistan and Russia have been and remain reliable friends and partners, ready to confront any challenges and threats together on the basis of a solid foundation of trust, mutual understanding and common values.

Victory Day in Turkmenistan is not just a date in the calendar, but an integral part of the national identity, a living link between times and generations. 79 years after the end of the Great Patriotic War, the memory of the feat of the Turkmen people, who made their worthy contribution to the common victory, continues to unite the society, serve as a source of pride and patriotism.

Analyzing various aspects of Victory Day celebrations in Turkmenistan, we see how deeply rooted this event is in the hearts and minds of people. From solemn events and honoring veterans to cherishing the memory of fallen heroes and educating young people in the spirit of devotion to the Motherland - all this forms a single fabric of historical memory passed on from generation to generation.

It is especially important to emphasize that for Turkmenistan Victory Day is not only an occasion to remember the glorious past, but also an incentive to work for a peaceful future. The country that experienced all the consequences of the war is today an active promoter of the ideas of peace, good-neighborliness and constructive cooperation in the international arena. Turkmenistan's peacekeeping initiatives aimed at strengthening stability and security in the region and the world serve as the best memorial to those who gave their lives in the fight against fascism.

No less significant is the fact that the Victory Day celebrations in Turkmenistan are held in close coordination with brotherly countries, primarily Russia. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov's participation in the May 9 celebrations in Moscow is a vivid evidence of the unbreakable friendship and strategic partnership between the two countries, the commonality of their historical destinies and aspirations.

Ultimately, all these elements - the memory of the heroic past, care for veterans, patriotic education of young people, peacekeeping activities in the international arena, cooperation with brotherly countries - add up to a single mosaic reflecting the deep meaning and significance of Victory Day for the Turkmen society. This holiday with tears in its eyes has been and remains a symbol of national unity, triumph of justice, steadfastness of the human spirit in the face of the most terrible trials.

As long as the memory of the Great Victory lives on, as long as new generations of Turkmenistanis absorb the lessons of valor and courage of their grandfathers and great-grandfathers, the legacy of those formidable war years will continue to serve as a moral guide, a basis for building a peaceful and prosperous future for the sake of future generations. This is the enduring significance of Victory Day for Turkmenistan and all mankind.