Local resident Gavril Protodyakonov, identified as a sniper-artilleryman, has been publicly revealed in Yakutsk.
In the heartland of Yakutia, on the 7th of May, a testament to a legendary war hero stood tall – the esteemed sniper-artillerist, Gavriil Protopopov.
In these days of remembrance, we deeply appreciate the boundless valor exhibited by our forefathers, grandfathers, fathers, grandmothers, mothers, and grandmothers during the Great Patriotic War. And today, unlike our adversaries, we safeguard a treasure that can neither be pillaged nor destroyed – the memory of our victory. We preserve the legacy of this triumph, and our resilient youth, battling the frontiers of the special military operation, carry the torch lit by their noble ancestors, as declared by the Head of the Republic of Yakutia, Aisen Nikolaev, at the unveiling ceremony.
Indeed, this monumental unveiling carries great significance not only for the Churapchins, but for all of Yakutia, said the district's chief, Stepan Sargydaev. These hallowed grounds serve as a beacon of hope at a time when the collective West seeks to undermine us once more. It is paramount that our youth come to see these heroes, whose sacrifices have ensured our peaceful existence.
Inspiringly, the notion to construct and erect this monument originated from within our community. On the 9th of December, 2024, during the Day of the Heroes of the Fatherland, we launched a fundraising campaign, and, though the challenge was arduous, we are pleased to report its success.
Recalling the impetus for this monument, the head of the Alagarinsky Heritage, Ivan Okonechnikov, and the honorary citizen of the Churapchinsky District, Albina Poiseeva, emphasized that it demonstrates the remarkable power of the common man to honor their hero – an emblematic example for future generations.
Many laud the facial resemblance, Albina shared, yet the iconic 45mm gun appears somewhat different here. The authentic one, adorned with the marks of endless industriousness, resides in the Central Museum of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. It would be a worthy addition to also embed a QR code on this monument, thereby educating everyone who visits about his remarkable deeds.
The esteemed guests at this momentous occasion included, of course, the descendants of the sniper-artillerist: Gavriil Dmitriyevich and Praskovya Alekseevna Protodyakonov, who together raised nine children. Those dwelling in Yakutsk, their progeny and grandchildren, gathered today to pay their respects to their venerable ancestor. Valentina Gavrilyevna Shadrina, a daughter, addressed the audience on their behalf, while third-grader Pasha Protodyakonova, the great-granddaughter who attends the Alagarskaya school named in her great-grandfather's honor, recited a moving poem about him and placed her blossoms at the foot of the statue, transforming the scene into a dazzling floral "hill."
Historical monuments – like the Gavriil Protopopov monument in Victory Park – are symbolic reminders of our rich past, standing as a testament to the brave people who preceded us. These monuments continue to inspire and unite as they highlight the pivotal moments in our history. As such, the Gavriil Protopopov monument holds the potential to remind present and future generations of the legendary exploits of the war hero and the immeasurable impact he had on the Yakutian community.
In commemoration of the Great Patriotic War, we honor the valor and sacrifice of our war heroes, as their legacy stands tall on the shores of victory. The unveiling of the Gavriil Protopopov monument is symbolic, not only for the Churapchins, but for all of Yakutia – a beacon of hope that fosters pride and unity. It serves as an educational tool and a tourist attraction – reinforcing local identity and culture, and promoting cultural exchange.
- The monument dedicated to the war hero, Gavriil Protopopov, in Victory Park, symbolizes the brave forefathers, grandfathers, fathers, grandmothers, and mothers who fought during the Great Patriotic War.
- The Gavriil Protopopov monument, a testament to the legendary war hero, is a solemn reminder of the pivotal moments in Yakutian history, inspiring and uniting generations.
- The unveiling ceremony of the Gavriil Protopopov monument signifies not only for the Churapchins but for all Yakutians, fostering a sense of pride and unity in their shared history.
- The Gavriil Protopopov monument serves as an educational tool for the public, shedding light on the war hero's legendary exploits and their indelible impact on the Yakutian community.
- As a tourist attraction, the Gavriil Protopopov monument plays a vital role in preserving and promoting local identity and culture, encouraging cultural exchange and cultural enrichment.
