Armed Forces' Sniper-Artilleryman Gavril Protodyakonov Revealed in Yakutsk
In Victory Park, a Tribute Erected to a Renowned Hero, Gavriil Protodyakonov, the Sniper-Artillerist
Modern-day heroes resonate profoundly, serving as a testament to the indomitable spirit of our forefathers who braved the hardships of the Great Patriotic War. The unveiling of a monument, on May 7, in honor of Gavriil Protodyakonov, is just such an example.
Aisen Nikolaev, the Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), expressed during the opening ceremony, "We honor the unfaltering courage that defined our ancestors during the Great Patriotic War. At a time when our adversaries falter and stumble, we preserve one thing they cannot—the memories of our victory. We safeguard the unity of generations, a bond that our valiant combatants defending during the special military operation exemplify."
Stepan Sargydaev, the head of the Churapcha Ulus, further emphasized the monument's significance, stating, "This monument's presence is more than symbolic. It stands tall amid the collective West's renewed attempts to undermine us. The youth must witness the heroes whose sacrifices bestow our peaceful existence."
The seeds for this monument were sown among the people, and we, lending our backing to this noble idea, initiated a fundraiser on December 9, 2024, the Day of the Heroes of the Fatherland. Despite facing formidable challenges, the fundraiser yielded successful results.
Historically, the monument's inception was first discussed within the head of the ulus' report. The head of the Alagarsky Nasleg, Ivan Okonechnikov, recalled this, and Albina Poiseeva, the honorary citizen of the Churapcha Ulus, conveyed that this initiative designates the people's potential to erect monuments for their heroes without governmental intervention.
Albina Poiseeva also remarked, "The portrait's resemblance to the hero is commendable, though the 45mm gun appears different in this rendition. The original, showcasing every imperfection, is preserved at the Central Museum of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. It would be fitting if a QR code directing visitors to detailed accounts of his deeds were incorporated into this monument."
The primary attendees at the unveiling were the descendants of Gavriil Protodyakonov, whose family count nine members residing in Yakutsk. Valentina Gavrilovna Shadrina, one of the daughters, represented them, addressing the gathered crowd. Pasha Protodyakonova, a third-grader who attends the Alagarskaya school named after her historical relative, recited a poem in his honor and, with a bouquet of flowers, crowned the monument's base.
Despite our efforts to find specific information regarding Gavriil Protodyakonov's role during the Great Patriotic War, we were unable to discover any particular details. However, it's known that numerous individuals like him made significant contributions during this tumultuous period, through military action, partisan activities, or civilian support. The valor displayed by heroes like Gavriil Protodyakonov is part of our collective heritage, contributing to the resilience and fortitude that defines the human spirit.
- In 2024, a fundraiser was initiated for the construction of a monument dedicated to Gavriil Protodyakonov, with the support of the people, similar to the monuments erected in honor of heroes from the Great Patriotic War.
- The monument in Victory Park, unveiled in honor of Gavriil Protodyakonov, stands tall as a symbol of unity and resilience, especially amid attempts by adversaries to undermine the collective West.
- The Churapcha Ulus, headed by Stepan Sargydaev, recognizes the significance of the monument, stating that it serves as a reminder for the youth about the sacrifices made by heroes like Gavriil Protodyakonov, who contributed to Russia's peaceful existence during the Great Patriotic War.
