Russia: Putin honours Russia’s navy, promising more support for servicemen’s families

Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed the country's maritime forces during Russian Navy Day, in Senate Square in St. Petersburg, on Sunday.
"I congratulate all people who guard the maritime borders of our country, who serve in the surface and submarine forces, in naval aviation and coastal troops," stated Putin.
The president also extended his praise to all those "who works for the shipbuilding enterprises, everyone who defends the interests of the Fatherland, the honour of our flag in the world's oceans, who fights piracy, terrorism, contributes to the safety of navigation."
Finally Putin promised to ensure social benefits to servicemen and their families, stating "We will pay particular attention to ensuring social guarantees for servicemen and their families. We are well aware of what the well-being of homes, and hearth means for sailors."
Earlier in the day, Putin visited the legendary Aurora cruiser that helped to spark the October Revolution of 1917. The Aurora entered service with the Russian Navy in 1903. It is most famous for firing the shot that initiated the storming of the Winter Palace, which marked the beginning of the October Revolution in 1917.