On 9–10 September 2017, the Stalin Line Historical and Cultural Complex held its traditional celebrations marking Tankers’ Day. The weather was favourable, and the event attracted more than 12,000 spectators.
Over the two days, two military-historical reenactments depicted battles from the Great Patriotic War and the war in Afghanistan. They involved more than 200 reenactors from military-history clubs across the CIS and neighbouring countries, as well as more than 20 military vehicles.
For the first time, Stalin Line unveiled an exceptionally rare exhibit to visitors — a Soviet SU-76, rebuilt from scratch by the complex’s restoration team as part of the public-funded “Echo of War” project.
Visitors saw the legendary self-propelled gun make its first appearance on 9 September during a reenactment of a Great Patriotic War battle.
On both days, the crew of the Belarusian tank biathlon team’s T-72, which had taken part in the 2017 International Army Games, impressed spectators with their skill and accuracy. The crew gave two demonstration performances.
(photo: Boris Prokazov)
Visitors also saw the combat capabilities of the BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicle.
At the end of the reenactment, the participants laid a commemorative wreath at the pedestal of a T-34 tank that had taken part in the Great Patriotic War. Eternal glory to the heroes!
There was entertainment for everyone. A wide range of entertainment and interactive areas operated throughout both days, including the “Tank Crew School”, the Leto Trade promotional stand, a tank-themed quiz, the complex’s “Scout’s Trail” competition area, an exhibition of tank models, a photo zone and the Stalin Line cinema.
The most active visitors aged over seven who won prizes in the Ready for Labour and Defence (GTO) competition area were given the opportunity to ride in military vehicles.
Guests took part in the “Search for Small Arms” quest and a prize draw for tickets to “Battle of the Machines 4”. Food and refreshments were available at food courts, cafés and the recently opened Airborne Forces Bar (VDV). Despite the large number of visitors, all areas operated efficiently and there were no long queues.
A special children’s room and play area were available for younger visitors. Motya the Clown and his team made sure no one was bored.
Particular mention should be made of the high standard of visitor security, which was organised effectively yet unobtrusively.
Throughout the celebrations, visitors enjoyed performances by well-known groups and artists:
the Military Band of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Belarus, Olga Zhukova, Leprikonsy, Uncle Vanya (Ivan Vabishchevich), Drozdý, the Kvartirnik cover project and DJ Selebrium.
Mikhail Metla, Head of Development at the Stalin Line Historical and Cultural Complex, commented:
“Tankers’ Day is a special event that attracts a large and diverse audience every year with its unique atmosphere. Only on these days can visitors experience the true power of military vehicles, touch them and see them in action. Everyone interested in tanks and the history of tank design, or simply looking to enjoy themselves while engaging with history, returns to this celebration year after year.”
The restored SU-76:
Below is a short photo report showing how Tankers’ Day unfolded:
Battle of the Machines 4 takes place on 23 September — come along to the motor show!
Text and photos: Vitaly Dorosh
Based on material from travel.otzyv.by
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