Commemoration of Ukraine's Marines
May 23 is celebrated as Marine Day.
Greetings on the occasion
This day saw greetings from Commander of the Naval Forces of Ukraine Oleksiy Neizhpapa, Chief of General Staff Oleksandr Syrskiy, and the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.
General Syrskiy emphasized the deep historical roots of the marine corps. He mentioned that 107 years ago, Hetman Pavlo Skoropadskyi issued a decree to form the first brigade of marines in the naval forces of the Ukrainian People's Republic. "Since the times of the Cossacks, marines have always been at the forefront," he highlighted.
Syrskiy also noted that the marines continue to fight against Russian invaders. "Our unyielding marines withstood pressure in Crimea, heroically defended Mariupol, and showed resilience on Snake Island," he said.
The general addressed the servicemen: "We are a maritime nation. This shapes our character and sets new challenges. This is more than just war; it is a millennia-old tradition," he added.
Syrskiy emphasized that today, the Ukrainian marines are once again among the best, holding tough positions along the front. "The marine corps of Ukraine has always been and will remain," he stressed.
Greetings from the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine
The GUR also congratulated the "warriors guarding our shores and ports." They described marines as brave fighters, "resilient in the toughest conditions."
They reminded that since the first days of the full-scale invasion, marines have been among those facing the enemy in the south, defending encircled Mariupol and destroying invaders near Vuhledar.
"Eternal glory to the marines who gave their lives for a free Ukraine," they stated.
To those currently at the front, they wished endurance and a collective victory.
Greetings from the Commander of the Naval Forces of Ukraine
The Commander of the Naval Forces also addressed the marines: "Your valor is on land, at sea, and in the sky. You are an integral part of our history!"
He called for honoring everyone who gave their life defending Ukraine.
Marine Day: Key Facts
Marine Day is a professional holiday for servicemen of the marine corps, celebrated annually on May 23. The holiday was established in 2014, with the current date set by Presidential Decree No. 145/2018.
This date is actually dedicated to the approval of the first marine oath in 1992.
