In Ukraine, August 29 is marked as Defender's Remembrance Day, honoring those who gave their lives for the independence and territorial integrity of the country.
This day was established by a decree from the President of Ukraine on August 23, 2019, to commemorate the bravery of soldiers and volunteers who died for their homeland.
The choice of August 29 is significant, as it marks the events of 2014 during the Russo-Ukrainian War, particularly the Ilovaisk operation, where the heroism of Ukrainian troops and volunteers was evident, resulting in a heavy loss of life among Ukrainian soldiers.
Remembering the fallen soldiers urges us to remain steadfast and strong in defending our homeland, emphasized the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi.
Syrskyi noted that since 2014, Russian aggression has claimed the lives of Ukrainians daily. Each loss is an “inexpressible pain for relatives, comrades, and for all of Ukraine.”
“However, the sacrifice of every Ukrainian soldier is not in vain. It serves as the foundation of freedom for the Ukrainian nation and the independence of our state. The memory of heroes reminds us of the cost of this freedom and obliges us to be resilient and strong in defense of Ukraine. Eternal glory and memory to all who gave their lives for Ukraine,” the Commander-in-Chief stated.
He highlighted that the names of the fallen defenders are forever inscribed in the history of Ukraine, their deeds eternally etched in the “chronicles of our independence.”
Today, Ukraine honors the memory of those who sacrificed everything for the freedom of our state. Thanks to them, Ukraine lives on. This was echoed by Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal on the occasion of Defender's Remembrance Day.
“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, a testament to strength, loyalty, and self-sacrifice,” emphasized Shmyhal.
He also reminded that the symbol of this day is the sunflower, which grew on the battlefields near Ilovaisk, where in 2014 Ukrainian soldiers stood to protect their homeland.
“Thanks to them, Ukraine lives on. We continue the struggle for our victory and independence. We remember. We fight. We will prevail!” concluded the minister.
