Recognition of Naval Forces on Navy Day
On Navy Day, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky met with naval forces and presented them with state awards.
The President expressed gratitude to the sailors for their victories in battles, which enable Ukraine to resist Russian aggressors and protect its citizens.
«Ukraine has asserted its right to the Black Sea and pushed the Russian fleet into distant bays. We gained control over Snake Island, thus ensuring the safety of shipping. Every day, our naval forces, together with intelligence and security services, work hard to keep our ports and maritime routes operational», – emphasized Volodymyr Zelensky.
The President also acknowledged the contribution of naval forces in defending Odesa and the entire southern coastline from the threat of Russian landings, especially during the first year of full-scale war.
«Our defense was truly a historic result for the Ukrainian people, achieved by all of you and your comrades», – noted the Head of State.
He also specifically recognized the marines who defend critical positions on the front lines.
Volodymyr Zelensky awarded the Order of the Golden Star to Hero of Ukraine, Senior Sergeant Denys Chumak. Under his command, the crew of the landing craft executed numerous combat missions across the Dnipro River, providing transportation, fire cover, and evacuation for landing units. Last June, his boat was attacked by Russian drones and was damaged, but the senior sergeant continued to fulfill his duties, delivering ammunition and evacuating the wounded.
The President called for honoring the memory of fallen heroes. All sailors and marines who gave their lives for Ukraine were honored with a moment of silence.
The Head of State presented the Cross of Military Merit to the mother of fallen sailor Artem Medvedev. Artem completed 35 combat sorties across the Dnipro, providing cover during river crossings. Unfortunately, he died from hypothermia while performing his combat mission.
The President also awarded the Cross of Military Merit to Major Igor Rak for successfully eliminating enemy positions in Kherson region.
Three additional soldiers were honored with orders of Bohdan Khmelnytskyi, thirteen with orders for courage, and one with the Defender of the Fatherland medal.
