August 29 is celebrated in Ukraine as Memorial Day for defenders who perished in the fight for independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

This day was established by the Presidential Decree of Ukraine on August 23, 2019, to honor the heroism of soldiers and volunteers who gave their lives for their homeland.

The date of August 29 was chosen purposefully, as it marks the significant breakthrough of Ukrainian troops from Russian encirclement during the Ilovaisk operation in 2014, showcasing the heroism of both volunteers and military personnel, resulting in the loss of many Ukrainian lives.

The memory of fallen Ukrainian 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, he stressed, brings “unspeakable pain to families, comrades, and to all of Ukraine.”

“However, the sacrifice of every Ukrainian soldier is not in vain. It lays the foundation upon which the freedom of the Ukrainian nation stands. The memory of heroes reminds us of the price of this freedom and compels us to be resilient and strong in defending Ukraine. Eternal glory to all who gave their lives for Ukraine,” the commander stated.

He highlighted that the names of the fallen defenders are forever inscribed in the history of Ukraine, and their deeds are eternally recorded 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 stated by Minister of Defense Denys Shmyhal on the occasion of Memorial Day for Defenders of Ukraine.

“We remember with gratitude the defenders of Ukraine. Those who, at the cost of their own lives, stopped the enemy from the very beginning of 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 of Ilovaisk, where in 2014 Ukrainian soldiers stood to defend their homeland.

“Thanks to them, Ukraine lives. We continue the struggle for our victory and independence. We remember. We fight. We will win!” concluded the minister.