On October 1, the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated, and several years ago this day also became the Day of the Defender of Ukraine. Until February 24, 2022, everyone could have their own opinion and assess the degree of importance for themselves of a particular holiday, whether it is new or considered traditional. It is also true that every holiday is not just an abstract date on the calendar, but a day that is dedicated to someone.

But this year, we think, this holiday has become the most significant for everyone in Ukraine. And the words spoken by the president then seem incredibly appropriate: “In the chronicle of the Ukrainian army, rich in exploits, there are many battles and dates worthy of becoming Defender of the Fatherland Day. I emphasize that Ukraine will never again celebrate this holiday according to the military-historical calendar of the neighboring country. We will honor the defenders of our Fatherland, and not someone else’s!” Behind every memorable or holiday date there are living people who strived for something and had high goals and ideals. And the day on which the defenders of the Motherland are honored, people who, out of duty or by their own choice, now or three hundred years ago, gave a piece of their life, and often their whole life, cannot and should not remain just a date on the calendar.

Today, when war came to our home, the word defender has ceased to be abstract. It became very personal for everyone. We say or think protector, but we mean son, husband, colleague, sister, friend, brother, daughter, neighbor, godfather, niece, grandfather…

The Defender is no longer an abstract person in uniform. Each of them now has a familiar face and a familiar look.

Such people also work at the Poltava Automotive Aggregate Plant, and we are proud that people who can rightfully be called defenders of Ukraine are among us.

Once again, we congratulate the veterans of the Armed Forces and everyone whose lives are connected with protecting and ensuring the defense capability of our Motherland – Ukraine, everyone who today fulfills their sacred military duty, our relatives and friends who shared and share trials and difficulties with us.

We sincerely wish you good health, festive mood, personal happiness and prosperity!