MOSCOW, December 27. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Russian rescue workers on their professional holiday on Wednesday.
"We are rightfully proud of the service personnel, officers and civilian specialists working at the Ministry of Civil Defence, Emergencies and Natural Disaster Relief," the Russian president said.
He went on to say that the ministry’s personnel come to the aid of those who are in trouble and mitigate the consequences of natural and man-made emergencies despite the risks and danger.
"Always, in the most difficult conditions, [you] act competently as a team, without losing a minute," Putin said in a video address.
In his words, the history of the Russian emergencies ministry is full of examples of heroism and courage.
"I have no doubt that on this festive day you will remember them, pay tribute to your legendary predecessors, who more than once emerged from difficult trials with honor," Putin added.
Every year, Russian emergency service workers celebrate their professional holiday on December 27. The holiday was introduced by a presidential decree on November 26, 1995. The date marks the creation of the Russian Emergency Rescue Corps, a predecessor of the Russian emergencies ministry, which was established on December 27, 1990.