Andrei Bogatov, a former commander of the private military company Wagner who participated in combat operations in Syria, has become the head of the "Voïn" (Warrior) military-patriotic education center in the Belgorod region. This information was announced in the podcast "Forma na vyrost" (Uniform for Growth), produced by the publication "Novaya Vkladka" (New Tab).
The creation of the "Voïn" camps was initiated by a decree from Vladimir Putin. According to the organization's website, they operate in 18 regions of Russia, as well as in the territories of four annexed Ukrainian regions.
As noted by "Novaya Vkladka," one of these camps is headed by Andrei Bogatov, known as one of the first commanders of the Wagner PMC. In Syria, he sustained severe injuries, lost an arm, and was transferred to the position of commander of the security company at an oil refinery.
For his participation in the Syrian campaign, Vladimir Putin awarded Bogatov the title of Hero of Russia by a secret decree. Information about the award is available on the "Ruwiki" resource, in materials from Russian state media, and on the social media accounts of the "Voïn" center. Furthermore, Bogatov is under personal sanctions from the European Union and the United Kingdom.
After returning to Belgorod, the serviceman engaged in patriotic work and attempted to run for the State Duma from the "Rodina" (Motherland) party. Also, according to "Novaya Vkladka," he gave an interview in which he apologized for using profanity and criticized the Russian authorities for insufficient support for veterans and weak efforts in the patriotic education of youth.
Journalists noted that at the "Voïn" center, 75% of the instructors previously participated in the war in Ukraine before beginning to teach patriotic education.
Military personnel, including veterans of combat operations against Ukraine, regularly visit children's camps and schools as guest lecturers. They share their experiences and conduct lessons on "patriotism" with students.