Penza, 30 August 2012. PenzaNews. Russian President Vladimir Putin awarded pilot and cosmonaut Alexander Samokutyaev, a native of the Penza region, with the Gold Star of Hero of Russia during the award-giving ceremony at the Catherine Hall of the Kremlin on Wednesday, August 29.

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“Russia has always taken pride in those capable of performing true great deeds, those worthy of the very highest distinction. This goes for service in peace, and in war too. Russia has always taken pride in those moved by conscience, honor, courage, and personal bravery,” Vladimir Putin stated.

“I particularly note today the names of those receiving the high title of Hero of Russia. This decoration is awarded to test pilots and cosmonauts Andrei Borisenko and Alexander Samokutyaev, and also to Corporal Artem Katunkin of the Interior Ministry Special Forces,” the Russian president said.