The message reads, in part:
“It is deeply symbolic that this gala event bringing together participants of the special military operation, veterans of the Armed Forces, representatives of volunteer organisations, and students of Suvorov military and cadet academies in the State Kremlin Palace, is taking place on the eve of a wonderful holiday – Defender of the Fatherland Day. After all, Vasily Lanovoi was not only a famous artist beloved by the whole nation; we will also always remember him as an outstanding son of Russia, who devoted himself to its future with all his heart. He understood the exceptional importance of preserving for posterity the truth about the military, heroic pages of our national history. He inspired the Immortal Regiment movement and other socially important initiatives and did much to impart patriotic, spiritual and moral lessons to young people.”