Russia's Black Sea Fleet celebrates birthday

13.05.2010 Today Russia's Black Sea Fleet (BSF) celebrates anniversary of its foundation. 227 years ago Russian ships entered Akhtarskaya Harbor. Later on, the city of Sevastopol was established there, main naval base of Russian Navy. There were no triumphant festivities, the date is not so remarkable; sailors celebrated it in a modest way. Ships were decorated, and in Russian Admirals' Chapel there was a church service praising the Navy.

After short parade officers and enlisted personnel took over watch, just like in another day. Russian Black Sea Fleet maintains day-night readiness even in great holidays.

There was no naval parade in Sevastopol, sailors were about to celebrate the fleet's birthday in a soldierlike manner. Russian warships firstly reached Akhtarskaya Harbor 227 years ago, right after Crimea's integration into Russia at the times of Catherine the Great.

Some people attach greater importance to this holiday. Example, Vasily Eliseev came today to Malakhov Mount to pay tribute to those BSF mariners who died defending Sevastopol. His great-grandfather fought here as early as 18 century when British, French, Turkish and Italian troops landed Crimea with a view to invade Russia.

His father fought here during Civil War, and Vasily Eliseev himself liberated the city from Nazi invaders in 1944. He said he couldn't imagine Sevastopol without Russian fleet.

"Defend Sevastopol", ordered Gen. Kornilov during Civil War. His precept is topical until now.

As it was 227 years ago, St. Andrew's flags were hoisted on all warships. It used to be tricky to get to Sevastopol Harbor; eventually, security measures were eased and now tourists can easily spot all warships. And still combat training continues; for instance, large landing ship Yamal has recently returned from Novorossiysk after Victory Day festivities.

BSF mariners sail long-range cruises, patrol the Mediterranean Sea, and conduct exercises. After signing an agreement with Ukraine, they make long-range plans.

"The fleet will be developed and re-equipped with new ships. Of course, that are good tidings", says Ruslan Saffiulin, deputy commander for educational work, BSF destroyer Smetlivy.

As for Capt 2 rank Vladimir Kluyev, "Sevastopol and Black Sea Fleet is an integral organism which is destined for long-term existence".

In three years when the fleet turns 230, this date will be commemorated with large naval parade. And radically new BSF ships will take part in it.