27.11.2009
Chairman of State Duma Defense Board Viktor Zavarzin congratulated marines on their professional day.
"Through centuries marines have been taking part in numerous wars and armed conflicts like Crimea War, Russo-Japanese War, Great Patriotic War, Angola, Afghanistan and others. Marine is rightfully considered elite of Russian armed forces. In most extreme conditions marines demonstrate their highest military skills, bravery, heroism, selfless devotion to the native land and military duty. Experience of local conflicts, anti-terror operations and results of combat training are eloquent evidences of that.
Enhancing national security and protecting state interests, Marine preserves and multiplies centuries-old traditions of Russian Army and Navy.
In this remarkable day I would like to wish marines, veterans and their families health, welfare, great achievements in military service and work for the benefit of Russia".
Marine Day is celebrated in Russia in accordance with the order No. 253 of Russian Navy Commander-in-Chief dated July 15, 1996 "Establishment of annual holidays and professional days". That day was associated with Decree of Peter the Great about creation of the first Russian "regiment of naval soldiers" issued in November 27, 1705.
Fist who landed assault force from ships in 1664 were the British. In Russia a special marine team was formed in 1698 on the basis of Orel ship's crew. After successful testing in fighting against the Swedes, Peter the Great decided to create the whole regiment, taking crews of Baltic Fleet as the basis.
Marine is used for engagement in assault landing troops both jointly with land forces and independently. Coast defense (naval bases, ports) is also a mission of Marine.
Seamen in their striped vests and peakless hats fought during Borodino battle and Crimea War, smashed Nazi invaders, waged in Angola, Vietnam, Syria, Egypt, Guinea, Afghanistan and other countries.
Automatic small arms, tanks, artillery, antitank and antiaircraft systems, armored personnel carriers are at the disposal of present Russian Marine. Great attention is given to amphibious craft and vehicles with high cross-country capability.
Marine troops are within all Russian fleets – Northern, Pacific, Baltic Black Sea Fleets and Caspian Flotilla as well.
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