Oleg Valenchuk: The Konev Museum — Our Contribution to Preserving Historical Truth

      The new school year in Kirov was marked not only by ceremonial assemblies and the ringing of the bell, but also by the reopening of Oleg Valenchuk’s unique project “Konev – Marshal of Victory” at the museum dedicated to the life and exploits of our distinguished fellow countryman. On September 3 a new season of school tours began here. On the very first day the museum was visited by students from Schools No. 27, 59, 25 and the Grin Gymnasium. The steady stream of young visitors attests to the project’s great popularity. The success is due not only to carefully chosen material but also to the professionalism of the guides — who, incidentally, are children themselves. They do not merely read facts from Konev’s biography; they draw their peers into an engaging narrative using vivid photographs and little-known details from the life of the legendary commander. The educational value of the project is undeniable. Teachers note that tours of the Konev museum are especially effective for primary and secondary school students. At this age children are most receptive to information, and the engaging presentation helps them better absorb historical material. “In addition, visiting the museum helps deepen understanding of the school curriculum, making lessons more interesting and meaningful,” said Natalia Filimonova, form teacher of 9B at School No. 59. It is important to note that the project focuses not only on Konev’s military achievements but also on his human qualities. Oleg Valenchuk emphasizes that Ivan Stepanovich was not just a brilliant strategist but a true father to his soldiers, someone who showed care for his men. This side of the Marshal’s personality, often left in the shadow of dry historical summaries, is presented in the museum in a form accessible to children — after all, many of the facts the young guides learned came first-hand from the Marshal’s daughter and granddaughter. “The creation of the museum is a contribution to preserving historical truth and countering attempts by some Western countries to rewrite the history of World War II,” notes Oleg Valenchuk. “The Konev Museum is a symbol of remembrance of the great commander and a source of pride for Russia; it is a place where patriotic consciousness is formed, where love for the Motherland and respect for the heroes of the past become an integral part of the worldview of young citizens. That, indeed, is the main mission of the project and of the museum that was established.”