President Volodymyr Zelensky personally presented state awards to soldiers and families of fallen Heroes of Ukraine. One of the awardees was Lieutenant Colonel of the National Guard Serhiy Kandiba, who was posthumously awarded the title Hero of Ukraine.
During the defense of Mariupol and the battles at Azovstal, Serhiy Kandiba personally eliminated around 40 invaders and destroyed enemy equipment. He managed to save the lives of dozens of wounded soldiers and civilians. The hero died on May 2, 2022, while protecting his comrades.
Senior Sergeant of Police Ruslan Kurbatov was awarded the Order of Bohdan Khmelnytskyi of the III degree for his heroic defense of Leonidivka. For 60 days, he endured shelling, participated in mine clearance, and personally eliminated 15 invaders.
Commander of the aviation unit of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine Yevhen Skrynyk received the Order of Courage of the III degree for his bravery and fearlessness in rescue operations. Since 2022, he has actively participated in the evacuation of the wounded in combat zones, having a significant flight time on helicopters.
Ukrainian heroes have been awarded well-deserved honors for the courage and bravery shown during the defense of their country during the war. Their active participation in the defense of Ukraine's territory remains relevant, and the heroic deeds of soldiers and rescuers demand recognition and awards from the state.