Honoring the Heroism of Ukrainian Border Guard Sailors

Border guard sailors from Odesa and Izmail have been honored with a prestigious award from the President of Ukraine. According to Presidential decrees No. 723/2025 and No. 724/2025, issued on September 30, 2025, the 1st and 18th detachments of the Maritime Guard of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine were awarded the distinction "For Courage and Valor." This was reported by the press service of the Maritime Guard of the SBGS.
The ceremony took place in honor of Defender's Day in Ukraine. Honorary ribbons were presented to the unit commanders – Captain 1st Rank Roman Mahera and Captain 1st Rank Oleg Shiksha.
For over a decade of war, the border guard sailors have repeatedly proven their loyalty to the oath: they carried out combat missions in the ATO and JFO zones, underwent rotations in the eastern part of the country, and with the onset of the full-scale invasion, became a shield on the southern front, protecting maritime borders and their homeland.
“Dear comrades! Today, our unit has been awarded a special distinction – "For Courage and Valor." It symbolizes our dedication to our oath, resilience in the storms of war, and the indomitability of the Ukrainian border guard sailor. The maritime service has always been a test of character. And we have proven that we are worthy of continuing the glorious traditions of Ukrainian defenders of maritime borders. We stood firm where the waves of danger rose and confidently steer toward Victory. I am proud of each of you! This distinction belongs to our entire maritime family – to the living heroes and to those who remain forever at sea. May the sea be your friend, the wind be at your back, and the Battle Flag with its new ribbon remind you: we are an invincible force! Glory to Ukraine!,” said Roman Mahera, congratulating the unit.
“Dear border guard sailors! It is a great honor to receive the award "For Courage and Valor." This confirms that we perform our tasks of protecting the southern borders of the state qualitatively and effectively. This award symbolizes our strength, resilience, and dedication to Ukraine. We have shown that the servicemen of the Maritime Guard of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine can withstand where others cannot. This award belongs to everyone – to those who are currently in the ranks and to those who forever remain at sea. We will continue their legacy and will surely win. I wish the sea always to be your ally, the waves to carry you only to victories, and the wind to fill the sails of our freedom. Together we are an invincible force! Glory to Ukraine!,” emphasized Oleg Shiksha.