International Students Participate in Military Reenactment Commemorating 80th Victory Day

Victory Day, marking the Soviet people’s victory over fascism, unites millions worldwide. Many international students see this day not only as a time of commemorating heroes but also as a symbol of solidarity and brotherhood, since the fight against Nazism was a shared mission of humanity.

In the year of the 80th anniversary of the Victory, students from Angola, Afghanistan, Burundi, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Syria, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan at the Institute of International Education had a unique chance to take part in events organized by the “Division” Military-Patriotic Club. The club has been dedicated for over 20 years to promoting Russian military history and fostering physical training and martial skills among young Russians.

A highlight for the international students was participating in a military reenactment held at the Kubinka Air Force Club. As volunteers of “Division,” they visited the airfield near Moscow, renowned for its vast collection of historic aircraft, and immersed themselves in the life of military pilots. Aviation technicians demonstrated how military planes are prepared for takeoff, with checks of the aircraft’s body, tail, wings, landing gear, and especially the engine and fuel system.

The students listened with great attention as reenactors from “Division” explained the tactics of combat during the Great Patriotic War. They were thrilled by the rare opportunity to explore iconic military aircraft such as the IL-2, LA-7, and YAK-3 — sitting in the cockpits and touching the controls.

Throughout the event, modern-day pilots wore period military pilot uniforms. Before taking off, they pinned photos of their grandfathers, veterans of the Great Patriotic War, to their flight suits and soared into the sky. The emotional impact on the students was profound as they witnessed the “Immortal Regiment in the Air” memorial show. The young pilots, so easygoing and approachable on the ground, amazed everyone with aerobatic stunts reminiscent of their veteran ancestors’ maneuvers during World War II.

Some students shared that, for them, participating in this event was a meaningful way to honor the Soviet soldiers who had preserved peace and freedom for future generations. They expressed heartfelt admiration for the military reenactment and noted that the Russian tradition of commemorating Victory Day is truly impressive.

The IIE Department of Russian as a Foreign Language extends sincere gratitude to Yuri Moskvin, head of the “Division” Military-Patriotic Club, for providing this unforgettable opportunity to the students.