Many people thought that this was unfair, since young men could join the army when they were 18, dying for their country before they were able to vote.
Nearby Victory Park is another powerful tribute to those who fell defending the city, including the millions of soviet soldiers who died in the second world war.
Holidays like these were established to honour persons who have served their nation or died in the service of their country and those whose labour makes the country strong.
You remember a fine young man, who enlisted before he had to, and who gave his life for his country, because he'd be alive and well today, if he hadn't chosen to go to war.