Thursday, December 17, 2009

A Monument a Day #15 - The Patriotic War of 1812

Patriotic War of 1812
Statue of a Ukrainian soldier of the Kyiv Kozak regiment

This statue commemorates the war with the French that invaded Russia under the leadership of Napoleon in 1812. Specifically, it marks the June, 1812 formation of the 2nd Kyiv Kozak regiment here in Bila Tserkva. This war was known as The Patriotic War.

The lack of supplies ultimately starved the French Army into retreat and Russian troops harassed the retreating French causing massive loses. Out of an original force of 500,000–600,000, only 40,000 frost-bitten and half starved survivors stumbled back into France. The Russian campaign was the decisive turning-point of the Napoleonic Wars that ultimately led to Napoleon's defeat and exile on the island of Elba. You can read about the details of the French invasion of Russia by clicking HERE.

Patriotic War of 1812
"In June of 1812 in Bila Tserkva, was formed the 2nd Kyiv Kozak regiment that actively participated in the Patriotic War of 1812."

This monument is located at: 49°48'7.54"N 30° 6'29.54"E

1 comment:

John said...

its interesting to find how we in England also remember Napoleon and in exploits even a then enemy was admired aim sure even in England but we did celebrate are victory's against him