Presenting the Order of Zhukov to the Presidential Regiment

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Comrades officers, warrant officers, sergeants, soldiers,

Our dear veterans,

This year, the Presidential Regiment of the Moscow Kremlin's Commandant's Office within the Federal Guard Service of Russia marks its 90^th anniversary. I would like to convey my heartfelt greetings to the regiment's veterans and all its personnel on this marvellous occasion.

We have gathered in the Moscow Kremlin's St George Hall, which serves as one of the main symbols and helps preserve the memory of the Fatherland's military valour, the legendary battles and heroes of 1812, conveying a direct and unbreakable bond and continuity in the country's military history.

Since its creation in 1936, the regiment's personnel have distinguished themselves through excellent military and special training, and have always fulfilled their objectives, while serving as role models for military personnel from other units and formations.

The regiment's soldiers and officers served well during the harsh years of the Great Patriotic War and demonstrated their professionalism in military affairs, as well as their best qualities and love for their Fatherland.

The regiment received the Wartime Red Banner for its unparalleled bravery, fidelity to its duty and oath in 1944, and in the summer of 1945, a mixed battalion of the Kremlin regiment took part in the legendary Victory Parade. It joined the frontline heroes in marching across the country's main square, which served as a symbol of the strength and greatness of our nation and state.

It is heartening that you have been preserving and building on the invaluable traditions of your predecessors in today's world while honouring the memory of your fellow servicemen. The names of 99 officers and soldiers who died valiantly while fighting Nazism will remain forever on the regiment's lists.

I would like to place a special emphasis on the fact that you are constantly improving your military skills by mastering the latest technology and weapons, while serving as role models in terms of your bearing and appearance.

It is symbolic that you have been entrusted with defending the Moscow Kremlin, the heart of Russia, as well as many other major state facilities, performing responsible ceremonial functions, including by serving in the honour guard of the Eternal Flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and taking part in the changing of the unmounted and mounted guard on the Kremlin's Cathedral Square.

I would like to thank you for your service, for your determination and your loyalty to your oath, for the courage you displayed during times of trial, when the fate of Russia was at stake.

We know that you will never let us down and will continue to fulfil the tasks assigned to you with honour.

Once again, I would like to congratulate the regiment's personnel on this anniversary. I wish you good health, new achievements, wellbeing and all the best to your loved ones.

We can now proceed with our honourable mission and procedure.

(Ceremony to present the order)

Vladimir Putin: Comrades, congratulations on receiving a state decoration. Hooray!

Commander of the Presidential Regiment Major General Mikhail Suraikin: Comrade President of the Russian Federation.

Allow me to express my deep and sincere gratitude for recognising the Presidential Regiment for its service.

This decoration serves as a recognition of the hard and selfless efforts by so many members of the Kremlin regiment and reflects the contribution of every soldier, sergeant, warrant officer and officer to enabling the regiment to deliver on its mission.

On behalf of the personnel, I would like to assure you that the Presidential Regiment will always be there to defend the state interests of the Russian Federation. It will continue to improve its military and professional skills in keeping with its motto: Fidelity, Honour, Duty.

We will always stay true to our Oath and selflessly serve our nation and our Fatherland, the Russian Federation! This is the pledge we make.