BELARUS NEWS AND ANALYSIS

DATE:

05/04/2006

Belarus Missile Crisis Vets Decorated

Minsk, Apr 5 (Prensa Latina) The Cuban Embassy awarded the first degree internationalist medal to eight Belarusian veterans who accomplished missions during the difficult October (Cuban Missile) Crisis.

While presenting the medals on behalf of Cuba's Revolutionary Armed Forces and Council of State, Ambassador to Minsk Omar Medina evoked the symbolism of the service rendered by Soviet soldiers and officials of the time.

We are receiving today the seeds of solidarity and selfless aid you sowed during that crisis period in the fruits of younger generations and in the friendship and solidarity that will remain between our peoples, the diplomat said.

After receiving the award, some of the veterans referred to the strategic military importance of the so-called Operation Anadyr, as for the Soviet Army it was a top priority to prevent direct US aggression against Cuba.

First Lt. Guennadi Ladysev (R) thanked the Cuban Government for cherishing memories of the events and the contribution made by Soviet soldiers.

He said that by aiding other Third World nations, Cuba is a living example of internationalism.

Source:

http://www.plenglish.com/article.asp?ID=%7B0DDACC38-0AD7-46D5-B3F5-FDCF00C8ACBF%7D&language=EN