Soviet Red Navy Officer

February 23 has been traditionally known in Russia and the former Soviet Union as the "Defender of the Fatherland Day." Since a few years ago, it also became a federal day off. During the Defender of the Fatherland Day Russia officially honors those who are presently serving in the Armed Forces and those who have served in the past. During the era of the Soviet Union, it was called the Red Army Day or the Day of the Soviet Army and Navy (celebrating the day of the first mass draft of the Red Army in Petrograd and Moscow or of the first combat action against the invading German forces).

However, since decades ago, Fatherland's Defender Day has become an analogue of a Western Father's Day. In fact, the holiday is even broader than that, as all women--from kindergarten to retirement homes--congratulate men in their lives and give them gifts. Little boys in grade school usually receive cards and toys from their female classmates, and corporations give gifts and throw parties celebrating the male workforce. Many Russian's simply call the holiday the Men's Day. For those wondering about the sexist implications and equality - March 8 is the Women's Day, also a federal holiday. The United Nations declares March 8 as the International Women's Day to celebrate women and the accomplishments they have made to society. Other than in the former Soviet republics, it is not celebrated much throughout the world.

Russians love both holidays and gift each other with the generosity comparable to that of Christmas and birthdays. Happy Men's Day!