December 12 marks Ground Forces Day in Ukraine.
This holiday was established by the decree of the President of Ukraine on October 18, 1997, to recognize the contributions of the Ground Forces, the largest branch of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in ensuring the nation's defense capability.
On this day, mechanized, tank, and artillery troops, military aviation, air defense units, and special forces are honored.
The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, emphasized that these troops are at the forefront of Ukraine's defense.
«The Ground Forces are a powerful force that unites various units: mechanized, tank, artillery, as well as modern technologies that help Ukraine defend its borders», - noted Syrskyi on Facebook.
According to him, at the onset of the full-scale Russian invasion, it was the ground troops that became the first barrier against the enemy.
«The infantry defended Kyiv, actively fought during the Slohobozhansky Offensive Operation, liberated the right bank of Kherson region, destroyed Wagner forces in Bakhmut, and fought the enemy in Kursk. The Ground Forces are the backbone of Ukraine's defense, and it's essential to have trained infantry behind our fortifications», - emphasized Syrskyi.
He also noted that today the Ground Forces are undergoing significant transformations right on the battlefield.
«Modern technologies such as drones and new combat modules have become an integral part of our army. I am proud to be part of this transformation», - added Syrskyi.
On this day, we honor the memory of fallen soldiers who gave their lives for Ukraine's freedom. Eternal memory and glory to the Heroes.
«Thank you to all Ground Forces personnel for their dedication and courage in defending our country», - stated Syrskyi.
***
Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal stated on Telegram that this holiday is for those who bravely repel Russian assaults along all front lines.
«For Ukraine! For its freedom!» Under this slogan, the Ground Forces relentlessly strike at the enemy, making them pay a high price for their aggression against our state», - emphasized Shmyhal.
He expressed gratitude to every defender serving in the Ground Forces for their conscientious fulfillment of military duty and bravery. «Eternal memory to those who returned home on their shields», - added Shmyhal.
«Glory to the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine! Glory to the Ukrainian army!», - emphasized the Defense Minister.
