XX International Judo Tournament for Police and Army Honors Fallen Heroes in Moscow
The XX International Judo Tournament for Police and Army, held in Moscow, brought together participants from 12 countries to honor the legacy of fallen officers and military personnel. The event, organized by the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs, featured intense competition alongside heartfelt tributes to those who lost their lives in service.
Commemorating Sacrifice and Courage
The tournament, staged at the “Basket Hall Moscow” sports complex, included a solemn ceremony where approximately three dozen fallen heroes were posthumously honored. Their families received symbolic gestures of recognition, including keys to new vehicles, as part of the charitable initiative “We Remember.” Among the honorees was Lieutenant Alexander Shcherbakov, who died in 2022 after heroically evacuating civilians during an attack on a police station in Zaporozhye. His wife, Natalya Shcherbakova, attended the event, reflecting on her husband’s dedication: “My husband always wanted to protect his country. He started his police career in 2022 and always showed extraordinary resilience in the face of danger.”
Statal Secretary and Deputy Interior Minister Igor Zubov personally greeted Shcherbakova, emphasizing the event’s purpose: “The goal is to preserve the memory of fallen officers and highlight their heroism.” Over the past 20 years, the organizing committee has provided over 250 vehicles and two apartments to families of deceased service members.
Competition and Unity
The tournament featured teams from Russia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, Army, MCHS, Rosgvardia, FSB, and international delegations including Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Central Asian nations. Russia’s police team, historically the most successful with 12 titles, narrowly lost to Rosgvardia this year. Uzbekistan secured second place, while Belarus and Russia’s Armed Forces claimed bronze.
Senior coach Zalim Gadano emphasized the event’s significance: “For our athletes, competing here is a great honor. They gave their all, and we will return stronger.” The competition, rooted in judo’s role in military and police training, also served as a unifying celebration, attracting officials, lawmakers, and artists united by patriotism.
A Legacy of Service
The tournament, now in its 20th year, continues to blend athletic excellence with tributes to sacrifice. As Natalya Shcherbakova shared, “Our sons are like Sasha—brave and kind. We miss him dearly.” The event stands as a testament to the enduring bonds between service members, their families, and the communities they protect.