This day in Russian history and the History of the world.

January 23

January 23, 1927: A paramilitary society in the Soviet Union DOSAAF (Voluntary Society of Assistance to the Army, the Air Force and the Navy) was founded. The stated goal of the society was "patriotic upbringing of the population and preparation of it to the defense of the Motherland".

Among the means in achieving these goals was the development of paramilitary sports.

Initially, an important goal was financial support of Soviet military, by means of membership fees, subscriptions, lotteries, and donations.

At the same time, ordinary sports were also supported within the framework of DOSAAF facilities: sports halls, stadiums, swimming pools.

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