Veteran's film and stories bridge Russia's past and present for Kolyma youth
Andrei Aksanov, a deputy in the Magadan Regional Duma and leader of the SVO veterans group Kolyma, recently met with young residents of Kolyma. The visit was part of the Heroic Deeds of Our Compatriots project, aimed at fostering patriotism and historical awareness among the younger generation. During the meeting, Aksanov screened his short film The Seven Colors of Edelweiss, which explores the Battle of the Caucasus from 1942 to 1943.
Aksanov began by sharing personal stories from his childhood and military service. He explained how these experiences shaped his life and career. The discussion then shifted to Russia's system of military honours, where he traced its evolution from ancient orders to modern distinctions.
He described how Soviet-era awards like the Order of Lenin and Hero of the Soviet Union gave way to new honours under Presidents Yeltsin and Putin. Today, decorations such as the Order of Military Merit, Hero of the Russian Federation, and the Cross of St. George recognise bravery. Recent additions, including the Medal for Strengthening Combat Commonwealth and wartime awards post-2014, reflect ongoing changes in the system.
Aksanov also spoke about the challenges of filming The Seven Colors of Edelweiss, including the team's climb of Mount Everest. He stressed the importance of preserving historical truth and honouring ancestors' sacrifices as a sacred duty. The session ended with a question-and-answer segment, where schoolchildren asked about military traditions and veterans' hobbies.
Throughout the meeting, Aksanov emphasised the need for open conversations with young people. He believes such dialogues help pass down values, shape worldviews, and strengthen patriotism.
The event highlighted Aksanov's commitment to educating youth about national history and traditional values. His film and personal stories provided a direct link between past struggles and present responsibilities. The project continues to encourage young residents of Kolyma to engage with their heritage and recognise the importance of civic duty.
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