Donetsk, Nov 14 - DAN. The republic’s capital on Tuesday marked the 3rd anniversary of the establishment of DPR First Army Corps. Some 300 servicemen and their relatives gathered at the Donetsk National Academic Musical and Drama Theatre for the occasion.
DPR Head Alexander Zakharchenko, Defence Minister Vladimir Kononov and other officials attended the function.
“I’m filled with pride because no other country in the world was able to build an army in such a short time, but we did it. Each of us deserves credit; your daily efforts helped create the army. I thank everybody on active duty present here,” Zakharchenko said.
Major-General Denis Sinenkov and Colonel Gennadiy Alyabyev were awarded the Orders of the Republic; two servicemen were commended with badges for “Services to the Motherland.” The decorations were handed in by the head of state.
“I’m sure we’ll mark together the 5th and 10th anniversaries of the Corps establishment. Hopefully, everybody will see the happy day when we celebrate the common victory,” the DPR leader said.
Another 20 servicemen received decorations, including five St George Crosses, one Order of Saint Nicholas, two Orders For Military Virtue, two medals For Courage, three medals For Service in Battle and one badge for Military Service. Six officers received official certificates of acknowledgement from the DPR Defence Ministry.
A performance of republican artists wrapped up the ceremony.
DPR established its 1st Army Corps on 12 November 2014. *jk