Mikhail, 82 and Semyon, 83. Veteran’s Day used to be a day for Mikhail and Semyon to reunite with their former comrades in arms; to celebrate and be celebrated. However each year their group of veterans dwindles, due to low pensions, alcoholism and plain old age. This year, only the two of them remain, and they are both aware that this may be the last celebration. They sit down to rest during the parade and watch younger generations celebrate a now distant victory won by a country that no longer exists. As they watch, they wonder aloud about what will become of the new Russia, and whether they’ll be fortunate enough to be remembered in another 20 years.

Veterans Day is the American name for the international day called Armistice Day. It falls on November 11, the anniversary of the signing of the armistice that ended World War One. It is both a federal holiday and a state holiday in all states. The same day is observed elsewhere as Remembrance Day or Armistice Day

Moscow, Russia.

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