The message reads, in part:

“Millions of people in this country and abroad know the name of this legendary pilot and three time Hero of the Soviet Union.

“Alexander Pokryshkin made an outstanding contribution to the glorious military history of Russia. He was a military theoretician and created new air-combat tactics, expressed in his famous concept: “Height, Speed, Manoeuvre, Fire.” Pokryshkin was also an excellent instructor and trained many of Russia’s best pilots.

“The life and heroic exploits of Alexander Pokryshkin have special significance for the people of contemporary Russia, making them feel proud of their country’s heroic past, and giving rise to a sense of patriotism and responsibility for the future of our Motherland.”