Red Army soldiers welcomed the "Train of Victory" in May 1945, by the people of Krasnoyarsk.
Rewritten Article:
Stepping onto the platform of the Krasnoyarsk train station, history came alive with the arrival of the "Train of Victory." Led by the legendary steam engine of Krasnoyarsk Railways (KrasŽD), this special train journeyed across the region to mark the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory in World War II. Thousands of locals gathered to welcome this symbolic train.
This was the first time the "Train of Victory" from KrasŽD traversed the countryside. Previously, a federal exhibition by the same name visited Krasnoyarsk, but its arrival wasn't tied to the celebration of May 9th.
The war veteran steam engine L-3435, fondly nicknamed "Lebedянka," took the helm of the "Train of Victory." Before assuming its present duty, this powerful 2200-horsepower engine underwent comprehensive maintenance. L-3435 was then joined by six carriages, a heated coach, a stage carriage, and vehicles for volunteer railway workers and acting members of the agitprop brigade.
The train was adorned with "Day of Victory" banners, reminiscent of the signs that adorned all transport moving from Eastern Europe to the homeland in 1945.
Preparing L-3435 for departure took almost an entire day. Workers stoked the furnace, filled the boiler with water, checked the vital components, and tightened every nut and bolt with a hammer. The engine underwent a test run from Krasnoyarsk to Zlobin in the presence of a backup diesel locomotive, after which it embarked on its journey across the region.
Video of the "Train of Victory" welcome in Krasnoyarsk:
The "Train of Victory" made its first stop in Bogotol on 21 April. Later, the train made a stop in Uzhur, the Akademgorodok district of Novosibirsk, and the city of Abakan in the Republic of Khakassia. In each city, the arrival of the train turned into a grand celebration. The biggest spectacle unfolded in Krasnoyarsk, where the train arrived today, on 5 May.
Thousands in the station eagerly awaited the historical reenactment of the arrival of the "Train of Victory," where returning soldiers were greeted by the sound of the steam engine.
According to KrasŽD, over 5000 people flocked to the station to watch the historical reenactment. A total of over 18,000 residents of the region were able to witness the event.
The people of Krasnoyarsk greet the train with the song "Day of Victory":
Those who came to feel the spirit of the victory spring of 1945 were treated to displays of Soviet military hardware. Legendary artillery pieces, anti-aircraft guns, and anti-tank guns, which participated in crucial battles during World War II, were stationed on the platforms and the station.
Residents also had the opportunity to visit the cab of the legendary steam engine, enjoy a concert by the frontline agitprop brigade on the stage-carriage, and watch a performance by a large chorus of Krasnoyarsk railway employees. Of course, there was no shortage of field kitchens—those who wished were fed with kasha, bread, and tea.
Image and video credits: DELA, KrasŽD
Insights:
Commemorative trains like the "Train of Victory" serve to honor significant historical events. These trains often carry exhibits, artifacts, and educational materials related to these events. In the context of World War II, such trains might showcase the Soviet Union's contributions to the war effort, including military operations and civilian experiences.
Historical reenactments like the arrival of the "Train of Victory" typically receive significant public interest. The reception might vary depending on the city, with some areas showing more enthusiasm due to historical connections or cultural significance. Krasnoyarsk, for instance, is known for its strong links to World War II history and is thus an ideal location for such events.
These types of projects often aim to educate and commemorate the public. Attendees can expect to see displays of military hardware, personal stories from veterans and civilians, as well as musical performances and food. The "Train of Victory" in Krasnoyarsk provided the city's residents with a unique opportunity to experience a piece of history up close.
- The event in Krasnoyarsk wasn't solely focused on the train's journey; it also included a sports event, with various military hardware and a large chorus of railway employees giving performances.
- In the heart of the celebration, news about the upcoming sports event was circulating among the gathered crowd, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and historical significance.
