In Ukraine, December 12 is celebrated as Ground Forces Day.

This day was established by the decree of the President of Ukraine on October 18, 1997, to recognize the significance of the Ground Forces, the largest branch of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, in ensuring the defense of the state.

On this day, we honor the mechanized and armored troops, artillery, army aviation, air defense units, and special forces.

The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, emphasized that these troops play a crucial role in defending Ukraine.

«The Ground Forces unite mechanized and armored units, artillery and missiles, army aviation and air defense, drones and special forces. Today, this is an army of a new caliber, standing firm for Ukraine», - noted Syrskyi on social media.

At the start of the full-scale invasion, it was the ground units that became the first barrier against the aggressor.

«Ukrainian infantry defended Kyiv, pushed the invader back during the Slobozhansky offensive, liberated the right bank of Kherson, destroyed the Wagner group in Bakhmut, and fought the enemy in Kursk. The Ground Forces hold the frontline of Ukraine's defense. Fortifications are essential, but they mean nothing without Ukrainian infantry», - Syrskyi added.

He also highlighted that the Ground Forces are undergoing an unprecedented transformation on the battlefield.

«Modern UAVs, ground drones, combat modules, advanced electronic warfare systems - this is the new daily reality of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. I am proud to have had the honor of commanding the Ground Forces and today lead the strongest ground army in Europe», - Syrskyi emphasized.

On this day, we honor every brother and sister - the soldiers of the Ground Forces of Ukraine, who sacrificed their lives for freedom and independence in the fight against Russian invaders. Eternal memory and glory to the Heroes.

«Thank you to every soldier of the Ground Forces for serving the Ukrainian people, for your resilience and faith in our victory. For holding our land», - Syrskyi stated.

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Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal noted in a Telegram message that this holiday is for those who bravely repel Russian assaults on all fronts and steadfastly hold the lines under enemy shelling and bombardment.

«For Ukraine! For its freedom!» Under this motto, Ground Forces soldiers destroy the enemy daily, making him pay a heavy price for aggression against our state», - emphasized Shmyhal.

He thanked every defender serving in the Ground Forces for their diligent performance of military duty and courage. «Eternal memory to those who returned home on their shields», - added Shmyhal.

«Glory to the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine! Glory to the Ukrainian military!», - the Minister of Defense concluded.