"Military strength sustained as Zelensky honors infantry with awards and titles"
On Infantry Day, President Volodymyr Zelensky honors heroes and promotions
Celebrating Army Day, President Zelensky gathered with soldiers, families of fallen defenders, andbestowed state awards, even boosting three colonels to the rank of brigadier general.
According to the official reports, Colonel Viktor Solimchuk, Deputy Commander of the Joint Forces of the Ukrainian military, Colonel Alexei Maisternko, Commander of the 169th Training Center, and Colonel Alexander Bakulin, Commander of the 19th Army Corps, received their new ranks.
Zelensky addresses the troops with a firm statement, "Ukraine remains strong because the Ukrainian infantry stays stand, fights - wipes out the invader, safeguards and reconstructs our Ukrainian territories, carries out outstanding operations that are now a remarkable chapter in world military history - your history, the story of the brave."
In addition, Junior Lieutenant Vladyslav Datsko and Junior Sergeant Mykola Molchanov were bestowed the "Golden Star" Hero of Ukraine award, which demonstrates exceptional bravery and sacrifice in military service.
Separately, Zelensky granted the "Golden Star" order to the families of three fallen Heroes of Ukraine: Yaroslav Khivovsky, Vasyl Yaremko, and Ivan Holubka, who had been previously recognized for their heroic service and tremendous sacrifices.
It's worth mentioning that President Zelensky presented the "Golden Star" order, Ukraine's highest distinction as part of the title "Hero of Ukraine," to several servicemen posthumously in the past. For instance, Major Pavlo Ivanov, a 26-year-old F-16 fighter pilot, was awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine with the Golden Star order for his personal courage and heroism in defending Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He tragically lost his life during a combat mission.
The valiant actions of these individuals showcase the incredible sacrifices made by the Ukrainian military in the defense of their country. These awards reflect the nation's highest honor for military valor and are given to those who have demonstrated extraordinary courage and selflessness.
Colonel Viktor Solimchuk, Deputy Commander of the Joint Forces, stands among the promoted officers, having been boosted to the rank of brigadier general during Infantry Day celebrations in Ukraine.
The 169th Training Center's Commander, Colonel Alexei Maisternko, also received a new rank, together with Colonel Alexander Bakulin, Commander of the 19th Army Corps.
In the midst of war-and-conflicts and general news, President Volodymyr Zelensky commended the bravery of the Ukrainian infantry, emphasizing their crucial role in defending the country's territories.
The "Golden Star" Hero of Ukraine award, recognizing exceptional bravery and sacrifice, was bestowed upon Junior Lieutenant Vladyslav Datsko and Junior Sergeant Mykola Molchanov, joining the remarkable chronicles of Ukrainian military history.
