Dehn Pobeda – Victory Day – 9th May
May 9th marks the surrender of Nazi Germany to Soviet forces and the end of the Second World War … In the West – May 8th is marked as Victory in Europe (VE) Day and marks the day after the German High command surrendered to the Western Allies. The Red Army command, however, insisted that the Germans specifically surrender to the Soviet Union, and the official ceremony took place late on May 8th … and took effect the following day – Victory Day.
Picture from Wikipedia
In the Soviet Union, the War is referred to as The Great Patriotic War – it provided a great shock to the history, development and psychology of the peoples of the Soviet Union.
Kyrgyz contingents played a part in defending the motherland – of a population of just over one and a half million, some 363,000 went to fight – and 160,000 were killed. That’s 45% of those who went to war and 11% of the total population. The population of the Khirghiz SSR was literally decimated.
Kyrgyz soldiers served in a number of combat theatres – including the battle for Kursk, the road from Stalingrad to Latvia and the final push for Berlin in 1945.
It is sometimes said that these contingents served as “canon fodder” – but there is no doubt of the bravery exhibited by some of their number. Some 73 of the combatants were honoured as “Heroes of the Soviet Union” and many more received other honours. Some of them have museums and memorials dedicated to them and schools, roads, and even villages named in their honour.
The day is both a joyful celebration – and one of sadness … when those killed in the war are remembered – similar to Armistice Day in the UK, ANZAC Day in Australia and New Zealand and Memorial Day in the US.
In Kyrgyzstan:
Picture from Wikipedia
The day is usually marked by a parade in the centre of Bishkek. The President issues a proclamation congratulating veterans on the holiday and announcing special awards or bonuses for pensioners. In the days surrounding the holiday a number of events, such as concerts and festivals, (gatherings of veterans) are arranged.
For those who watch local television, all the channels tend to show war films.
The period from May 1st to May 9th includes three public holidays and at least one weekend – hence, at least some of the intervening days are declared as “non-working days” which means that many businesses and offices will be closed, although shops and restaurants will be open, however, banks will not.
Bishkek