They do not abandon their own: the 30th anniversary of the FSB veterans' movement was celebrated in Nizhny Novgorod.

      NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" - Anastasia Nazarova On March 22, the veteran movement of the FSB of Russia in the Nizhny Novgorod region celebrates its 30th anniversary. On the occasion of the upcoming anniversary, a solemn event took place in the concert hall of the philharmonic with congratulations, warm words, and honoring of veterans – the golden fund of the agency.

      How it all began

      The veteran movement of the state security agencies in the Nizhny Novgorod region began in 1996.

      "At that time, it was a very difficult time for the security agencies. A new political system and a new economic sphere were being formed in the country, and an agenda of critical attitudes towards security agencies was imposed from outside. People who had defended the country, its national security, and defense capability throughout their service needed support and protection themselves," recalls the former head of the FSB for the region, now a member of the Federation Council of the Russian Federation, chairman of the committee on security and defense, Vladimir Bulavin.

      On December 19, 1995, at a meeting with veterans, he proposed creating a regional public organization that would unite former employees and help preserve the continuity of generations. The organization was officially registered on March 22, 1996.

      "By creating the veteran organization of the management, we primarily declared that we do not abandon our own. Our veterans remain with us. The veteran organization is part of the management," emphasized Vladimir Bulavin.

      Ongoing work

      Today, the Council of Veterans of the FSB in the Nizhny Novgorod region is not just an association of former employees, but an active and significant part of the professional community. Its members include dozens of colonels, holders of state awards, combat participants, and honorary employees of the security agencies.

      The organization conducts systematic work: it participates in conferences, holds "Lessons of Courage," helps organize memorial events, the opening of memorials, and the publication of books. Special attention is paid to the veterans themselves. Council members strive to maintain contact with each veteran, assist in solving life issues, and provide material and medical assistance. Many were helped with employment after completing their service.

      A separate concern is for veterans of the Great Patriotic War and workers of the rear. In total, more than 80 participants of the Great Patriotic War served in the state security agencies of the Nizhny Novgorod region, including two Heroes of the Soviet Union.

      Great importance is attached to preserving memory. For example, in March 2022, a memorial was opened in Victory Park for three FSB employees who died while on duty – A.A. Krupinin, A.G. Mayorov, and E.V. Rassikhin. In August of the same year, a monument to Hero of Russia Anatoly Krupin appeared on the Alley of Glory in Gorodets.

      Veterans also made a significant contribution to the creation of the updated historical and demonstration hall of the management.

      "We have always treated the formation of the exhibition with great care. It is important for us to preserve the continuity of generations," noted the chairman of the Council of Veterans of the FSB in the Nizhny Novgorod region, Sergey Sherikhov.

      One of the key areas of work is meetings with youth. As mentioned above, "Lessons of Courage" are regularly held in educational institutions.

      "Patriotism must be instilled from childhood. I actively participate in such meetings, telling about the feats of NKVD employees during the Great Patriotic War," said veteran Nikolai Kultyapov.

      Words of gratitude and recognition

      On March 20, veterans, active employees, and honored guests gathered at the Nizhny Novgorod Philharmonic.

      The head of the FSB for the Nizhny Novgorod region, Igor Zavozyaev, noted that over three decades, the veteran movement has proven its significance.

      "Veterans have unique experience in ensuring state security. Behind each of them is a difficult path. It is especially gratifying that even after service, they remain in the ranks. Our senior comrades serve as a worthy example for new generations of personnel, preserve Chekist traditions, and engage in teaching activities," he emphasized.

      According to Igor Zavozyaev, the veteran organization actively participates in public life and departmental projects, including in the context of conducting a special military operation.

      "I want to thank you for strengthening the authority of the security agencies, for methodological assistance and interaction with the management. I wish you health, longevity, and new successes," added Zavozyaev.

      The deputy plenipotentiary representative of the President of the Russian Federation in the Volga Federal District, Igor Panshin, congratulated the veterans on their anniversary, thanking them for their conscientious work for the benefit of the country and its people.

      On behalf of the Legislative Assembly of the Nizhny Novgorod region, Senator of the Federation Council of the Russian Federation Dmitry Krasnov spoke.

      "You have earned honor and respect. You set an example of selfless service to the Motherland and loyalty to duty. For this, we bow to you," he said.

      Krasnov also expressed support for active employees who are currently in the special military operation, wishing them to return home alive and healthy.

      The mayor of Nizhny Novgorod, Yuri Shalabaev, also joined in the congratulations.

      "There are services without which the existence of the state is impossible. Yours is one of them. Thank you for your service, for your loyalty to duty. Special thanks to the veterans – for carrying through the years the principles on which the work of your agency is based," he noted.

      At the end of the solemn event, veterans were presented with letters of gratitude and memorable gifts, followed by performances by creative groups.

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