On March 14, Ukraine celebrates Volunteer Day – a day to honor individuals who, lacking military backgrounds, chose to defend their country by taking up arms in critical moments without coercion.

This date is significant; on March 14, 2014, the first volunteers left the Maidan to train at a base in Novy Petrivtsi, preparing to fight for Ukraine's territorial integrity.

Today, our nation faces immense challenges, fighting for independence and integrity against an aggressor. During these trying times, brave volunteers step forward to defend their homeland, embodying courage and heroism.

To commemorate Ukrainian Volunteer Day, a flower-laying ceremony took place in Odesa at the Memorial to Fighters for Ukraine in the Glory and Freedom Square.

Throughout March, educational institutions and libraries will host cultural and educational events on this important theme.

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The decision to establish Ukrainian Volunteer Day was made by Resolution No. 1822 of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine on January 17, 2017, to strengthen the patriotic spirit in society and draw attention to the participants of volunteer formations.