Patriarch Alexis II hands icon of St. George the Victory-Bearer to commander of Airborne Troops

Patriarch Alexis II of Moscow and All Russia has handed over an icon of St.George the Victory-Bearer to Colonel-General Georgy Shpak, commander of the Airborne Troops.

The ceremony was held after the Patriarch attended a service at the Elias the Prophet Church in downtown Moscow.

The Patriarch wished good health both to the general and to all the soldiers and officers serving the Fatherland.

Lieutenant-General Shpak congratulated the paratroopers on their professional holiday which is marked on August 2.