A memorial plaque in memory of the Hero of the Soviet Union, Major General, commander of the cavalry corps Lev Dovator was unveiled in Vitebsk
– It is gratifying to note that we not only remember but also continue to talk about the exploits of those distant years. And today, the younger generation, our citizens, enterprises, and organizations are not indifferent to the preservation of historical memory. Thus, letters with the initiative to update the memorial plaque were sent to the city executive committee, signed by the youth association of the military-patriotic club "Poisk," – noted Viktor Glushin, Deputy Chairman of the City Executive Committee. – From now on, when passing along Frunze Avenue, citizens and guests of the regional center will not only stop near this symbol of memory but also become interested in the fate of Lev Dovator. We are proud that he is our countryman, born in the territory of present-day Beshenkovichi District. During the Great Patriotic War, military equipment was named after him; today, streets in cities of Belarus and Russia are named after the Major General, and in Vitebsk, a Greco-Roman wrestling tournament is held in his honor.
Lev Mikhailovich Dovator voluntarily joined the ranks of the Red Army. Operating behind enemy lines, carrying out the command's orders, he destroyed enemy ammunition and combat equipment along with the cavalry corps. For his heroic deeds, he was awarded the Orders of the Red Banner and the Red Star, and two Orders of Lenin. Near the village of Palashkino, near the city of Ruza, Moscow region, Lev Dovator set up the field headquarters of the cavalry corps and, deciding to personally inspect the enemy's defensive positions before the attack, climbed to the opposite bank of the river. The fascists, noticing the concentration of people, opened fire with a machine gun. Thus, in December 1941, the Major General was mortally wounded and died at the age of 38. For his courage and heroism shown in battles with the German fascist invaders, he was posthumously awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union.
– Lev Mikhailovich Dovator is a vivid example of selfless service to the Fatherland. It can be confidently said that his bravery, courage, and patriotism will inspire young people, – noted Anatoly Burdo, chairman of the Vitebsk youth military-patriotic club "Poisk".
The authors of the memorial plaque are Vitebsk architects Alexander Mikhailiukov, Gleb Orlovsky, and sculptor Alexander Gvozdikov. After the solemn opening, representatives of authorities, public organizations, servicemen, and youth laid flowers at the symbol of remembrance.
