Today is the 80th anniversary of the complete liberation of Leningrad from the Nazi siege. A day that will remain in our hearts forever!

80 years ago, one of the most tragic and heroic battles of the Great Patriotic War and the World War II ended. The defenders and inhabitants of the besieged city suffered the harshest trials. Each of the 900 days of the siege went down in history as an example of steadfastness, boundless devotion and love for their city and country.

Much has been written about the war years of our Institute. On the very first day of the war, 300 people applied to be sent to the front. A total of 339 people from the Institute took part in military actions, 47 of whom died. A considerable part of the staff who did not go to the front went to explore and mine minerals, which were more than ever needed for victory.

No less important is the contribution to our victory made by the inhabitants of besieged Leningrad, the workers of the home front. Only they know what they had to experience and endure, what price they paid for the long-awaited victory!

Many of the veterans of the siege continue to work selflessly at the Karpinsky Institute today, demonstrating amazing working efficiency and responsibility, setting an example for the younger generation. At present, the Institute employs 10 people who have been awarded the badge "Resident of the Siege of Leningrad". More than 40 people who have been awarded the medal "For the Defence of Leningrad" and the badge "Resident of the Siege of Leningrad" have worked at the Institute.

We will always remember those who defended the country with weapons in their hands, who worked in the fiery ring of Leningrad and deep in the rear, who endured and won for the sake of peace on earth and happiness of future generations!

On the eve of the 80th anniversary of the complete liberation of Leningrad from the Nazi siege, the Karpinsky Institute held a solemn celebration for the veterans and residents of besieged Leningrad.