On March 14, Ukraine celebrates the day of those who first met the enemy, first with peaceful protests and then with arms on the battlefield. Hundreds of Crimeans, whose homeland was occupied in 2014, joined their country’s struggle for independence and freedom and continue until now.

It was on March 14, 2014, that the first volunteer battalion of 500 Maidan Self-Defense fighters was formed in Ukraine. A few months later, similar battalions began to form all over Ukraine, including the Crimea battalion. Just yesterday, the volunteers have already formed a strong, capable army. Yesterday, the volunteers will soon become winners.

We are grateful to each one of them who became a shield for their nation!

Eternal glory to those heroes who laid down their lives in the fight!

Glory to the Ukrainian volunteers! Glory to Ukrainе!