On March 14, Ukraine celebrates Volunteer Day – individuals who, not being military professionals, voluntarily took up arms to protect their country during a critical moment, without coercion.
This date was chosen for a reason: it marks the day in 2014 when the first volunteers left the Maidan for a training base in Novі Petrіvtsi to prepare for defending Ukraine's territorial integrity.
Today, our nation is facing its greatest challenge in modern history – a military struggle against the aggressor for independence and territorial integrity. In the toughest times of our history, brave volunteers step forward to defend their homeland, embodying heroism and self-sacrifice.
To honor Volunteer Day, a flower-laying ceremony took place at the Memorial to Fighters for Ukraine in Odesa’s Glory and Freedom Square.
Throughout March, educational institutions and libraries will host cultural, scientific, and educational events related to this theme.
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The decision to celebrate Volunteer Day was adopted by Resolution No. 1822 of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine on January 17, 2017, aimed at strengthening the patriotic spirit in society and increasing public attention and care for participants of volunteer formations.
