Archival spirit and military bearing: how the National Historical Archives of Belarus congratulated men on Defender of the Fatherland Day
The festive morning of February 23rd at the National Historical Archives of Belarus began with a bright surprise. From early morning, an atmosphere of celebration and joy permeated the first-floor foyer: the female staff had prepared an unusual welcome for their male colleagues.
Each man was greeted with smiles and good wishes. In addition to the traditional warm words, they were given tasty treats to boost morale, as well as humorous, yet stern, military summonses ordering them to report immediately to the festive events. To warm up on the February morning, everyone was offered hot, sweet tea and treats. This creative approach set a great mood for the entire workday from the very first minutes.
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| 1. Presentation of sweet gifts |
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| 2. Presentation of the holiday agenda |
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| 3. Presentation of the holiday agenda |
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| 4. Sweet tea |
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| 5. Presentation of sweet gifts and the holiday agenda |
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| 6. Presentation of sweet gifts and the holiday agenda |
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| 7. Presentation of sweet gifts and the holiday agenda |
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| 8. Presentation of sweet gifts and the holiday agenda |
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| 9. Presentation of sweet gifts and the holiday agenda |
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| 10. Presentation of sweet gifts and the holiday agenda |
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| 11. Presentation of sweet gifts and the holiday agenda |
The ceremony continued in the conference room. Official congratulations from the Deputy Director of the Archives, Natalia Buloychik, gave way to a touching and heartfelt program.
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| 12. Deputy Director of the National News Agency of Belarus Natalia Buloychik congratulates colleagues on the holiday |
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| 13. The staff of the National News Agency of Belarus |
The main event was the presentation «Our Defenders». A distinctive feature of the show was the use of archival footage, literally—childhood photographs of the archive’s employees. Spectators delightedly and laughed heartily as they recognized their present-day colleagues in the little boys in the black-and-white and color photographs. Each photo was accompanied by specially prepared poems that highlighted the unique character traits and professional talents of each hero of the occasion.
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| 14. Presentation of commemorative photographs to presentation participants |
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| 15. Presentation of commemorative photographs to presentation participants |
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| 16. Presentation of commemorative photographs to presentation participants |
Aiming tests were also on offer. The program continued with a competitive section—ball throwing into a basket. Despite its apparent simplicity, the competition generated considerable excitement. The men demonstrated excellent coordination and a will to win.
At the end of the tournament, the best marksmen were determined, taking three prize places. The winners received well-deserved awards and applause from their colleagues.
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| 17. Participant in the marksmanship tournament |
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| 18. Participant Marksmanship Tournament |
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| 19. Tournament Winners |
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| 20. Our Defenders |
We are proud of our defenders and wish them good health, happiness, self-confidence, optimism, and peaceful skies!