Memorial Day for Ukrainian Defenders
August 29 is a day in Ukraine dedicated to honoring the memory of those who gave their lives for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the nation.
This day was established by the decree of the President of Ukraine on August 23, 2019, to recognize the heroism of military personnel and volunteers who sacrificed their lives for the homeland.
The date of August 29 was chosen deliberately, as this day in 2014 marked a significant breakthrough of Ukrainian forces from encirclement during the Russo-Ukrainian War and the Ilovaisk operation, showcasing immense heroism among soldiers and volunteers, resulting in the highest number of Ukrainian casualties.
Remembering the fallen Ukrainian soldiers compels us to remain resilient and strong in the defense of our homeland, emphasized the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi.
Syrskyi stated that since 2014, Russian aggression has claimed the lives of Ukrainians daily. Each loss, he pointed out, brings “unspeakable pain to the loved ones, comrades, and the entire nation.”
“However, the sacrifice of every Ukrainian soldier is not in vain. It lays the foundation on which the freedom of the Ukrainian nation and the independence of our state stand. The memory of our heroes reminds us of the price of this freedom and obliges us to be steadfast and strong in defending Ukraine. Eternal glory and memory to all who gave their lives for Ukraine,” the commander remarked.
He stressed that the names of the fallen defenders are forever inscribed in the history of Ukraine, their deeds eternally etched in the “chronicle of our independence.”
Today, Ukraine honors the memory of those who gave their most valuable for the freedom of our state. Thanks to them, Ukraine continues to thrive. This was noted by the Minister of Defense, Denys Shmyhal, on the occasion of Memorial Day for Ukrainian Defenders.
“With gratitude, we remember the defenders of Ukraine. Those who, at the cost of their own lives, stopped the enemy from the very beginning of the Russian aggression. They are true heroes, exemplifying strength, loyalty, and sacrifice,” emphasized Shmyhal.
He reminded that the symbol of this day is the sunflower, which grew on the battlefields near Ilovaisk, where in 2014 Ukrainian soldiers defended their homeland.
“Thanks to them, Ukraine lives. We continue to fight for our victory and independence. We remember. We fight. We will win!” the minister concluded.
