The start of memorable events has already been given. The crossing of the Dnieper and the liberation of the first settlements cost millions of lives. The exact number of dead soldiers, officers and civilians is unknown today. Belarus has lost every third its resident. And we, like no other in Europe, honor the memory of the liberators. There is not a single settlement in Belarus without a memorial, an obelisk or a stele in memory of those who paid for their freedom with their lives. Not only experienced commanders, but also women, old people and children, contributed to the Victory.
The Belarusian offensive operation "Bagration" has become the largest in the entire world military history. On both sides, more than 4 million people participated in it. More than one and a half thousand soldiers and officers received the title of Hero of the Soviet Union. Belarus was liberated by people of different nationalities and religions. And today we honor everyone.
