On Thursday, President of South Ossetia Anatoly Bibilov presented state awards to the combatants who had defended the integrity and territorial independence of the Republic from 1989 to 2008.
According to the press service of the head of state, the award ceremony was timed to coincide with the Day of Courage and National Unity.
Addressing the audience, the head of state has stressed that only the spirit of patriotism, will and courage shown by the people of South Ossetia in upholding their national interests have allowed our citizens to live in the free and independent state today.
“The people chose their path and openly expressed their will. Thanks to the feat of defenders, we can today build our future in safety and strive for prosperity. I thank each of you. I wish you good health, success and family well-being,” he said.
For the courage and dedication shown in upholding independence and territorial integrity, Anatoly Bibilov awarded the combatants with medals "Defender of the Fatherland", "In commemoration of the 10th anniversary of Victory in the Patriotic War of the people of South Ossetia", as well as diplomas of the Republic of South Ossetia.
Some of the defenders of the Fatherland were awarded medals posthumously.
