News

WW I remains, artifacts unearthed in Grodno Oblast

Remains of 139 people, who died during World War One, two medals and about 50 artifacts have been found during digging in Grodno District, BelTA learned from Alexander Klimovich, Squad Commander of the 52nd Independent Specialized Scout Battalion. Local residents had informed the army that eight burial mounds are located near the village of Ratichi on the way from Grodno to Augustow Canal after they had found evidence of the mounds during this year’s agricultural work. Scientists confirmed that the 336th Chelyabinsk Regiment fought the Germans there in February 1915. The military history and patriotism team “Uralets” from Chelyabinsk also took part in the digging that began this summer. A month-long digging produced lockets, baptismal crosses, flasks, smoking pipes, coins, tailor scissors, a penknife, a German bayonet and other artifacts. Specialists believe the most precious discoveries are two medals “In memory of the 300th anniversary of the Romanovs House reign 1613-1913”. The digging continues. Once it is over, the people’s remains will be re-buried in a communal grave. Their personal belongings will be delivered to the Grodno City Military Enlistment Office.