August 29 marks a significant date in Ukraine - Memorial Day for the heroes who laid down their lives defending the independence and sovereignty of our nation.
In Odesa, the morning began with honoring the memory of fallen heroes and laying flowers at the Cossack crosses in the military cemetery.
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The Memorial Day for Ukrainian Defenders was established by the President of Ukraine's decree on August 23, 2019, to commemorate the bravery of those who sacrificed their lives for our country.
The date of August 29 was chosen deliberately, as it marks the day 10 years ago when a significant breakthrough of Ukrainian troops from Russian encirclement occurred during the war, showcasing the heroism of soldiers and volunteers, with many Ukrainian defenders losing their lives.
The sunflower has become a symbol of this day, representing the countless warriors who gave their lives in the fields of sunflowers for the freedom of our homeland.
We remember not only those who perished in Ilovaisk but also the thousands of heroes who have fallen in the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war since 2014, which represents the greatest trial in our nation's modern history.