Odesa and Izmail border guard sailors have been recognized with a prestigious award from the President. By decrees of the President of Ukraine No. 723/2025 and No. 724/2025 dated September 30, 2025, the 1st and 18th detachments of the Maritime Guard of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine were awarded the honorary distinction «For Courage and Valor». This was reported by the press service of the Maritime Guard of the State Border Guard Service.
The award ceremony took place during the celebration of Defender's Day in Ukraine. The honorary ribbons were presented to the unit commanders – Captain 1st Rank Roman Mahera and Captain 1st Rank Oleg Shiksha.
Over more than a decade of war, border guard sailors have repeatedly demonstrated their loyalty to the oath: they carried out combat missions in the ATO and JFO zones, underwent rotations in the east of the country, and at the beginning of the full-scale invasion became a shield at the southern borders, protecting maritime borders and their own homes.
«Dear comrades! Today, our detachment has received a special award – «For Courage and Valor». It symbolizes our loyalty to the oath, resilience in the storms of war, and the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian border guard sailor. The maritime service has always been a test of character. And we have proven that we are worthy of continuing the glorious traditions of Ukrainian defenders of maritime borders. We have stood firm where the waves of danger rise, and we confidently keep our course towards Victory. I am proud of each of you! This award belongs to our entire maritime family – the living heroes and those who have forever remained at sea. May the sea be your friend, the wind be at your back, and the Battle Flag with a new ribbon remind you: we are an invincible force! Glory to Ukraine!», – emphasized Roman Mahera, addressing the unit's personnel.
«Dear border guard sailors! It is a great honor to receive the award «For Courage and Valor». This is confirmation that we effectively and qualitatively fulfill the tasks of protecting the southern borders of the state. This award symbolizes our strength, resilience, and dedication to Ukraine. We have proven that the servicemen of the Maritime Guard of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine can withstand where others cannot. It belongs to everyone – those who are currently in service and those who have forever remained at sea. We continue their mission and will definitely win. I wish that the sea always be your ally, the waves carry you only to victories, and the wind fills the sails of our freedom. Together we are an invincible force! Glory to Ukraine!» – emphasized Oleg Shiksha.