Border guard sailors from Odesa and Izmail have been honored with a prestigious award from the President of Ukraine. By the decrees of the President of Ukraine No. 723/2025 and No. 724/2025, issued on September 30, 2025, the 1st and 18th detachments of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine's Maritime Security were awarded the distinction «For Courage and Bravery». This was reported by the press service of the Maritime Security of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine.
The award ceremony took place in honor of the Day of Defenders of Ukraine. Honorary ribbons for the Battle Flags were presented to the commanders of the units – Captain 1st Rank Roman Mahera and Captain 1st Rank Oleg Shiksha.
For over a decade of war, border guard sailors have repeatedly demonstrated their loyalty to the oath: they have carried out combat missions in the ATO and JFO zones, undergone rotations in the east of the country, and, since the onset of the full-scale invasion, have become a shield on the southern borders, protecting maritime borders and their own homes.
«Dear comrades! Today, the detachment has received a special award – «For Courage and Bravery». It symbolizes our loyalty to the oath, resilience in the storms of war, and the indomitable spirit 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 waves of danger rose, and we confidently hold the course for Victory. I am proud of each of you! This award belongs to our entire maritime family – to the living heroes and those who remain forever at sea. May the sea be your friend, the wind your ally, and the Battle Flag with the new ribbon remind you: we are an invincible force! Glory to Ukraine!», – stated Roman Mahera, addressing the unit's team.
«Dear border guard sailors! It is a great honor to receive the award «For Courage and Bravery». This confirms that we effectively and efficiently fulfill our assigned tasks in protecting the state's southern borders. This award symbolizes our strength, resilience, and dedication to Ukraine. We have proven that the servicemen of the Maritime Security of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine can withstand where others do not. It belongs to everyone – to those who are currently in service and those who have forever remained at sea. We continue their work, and we will surely win. I wish that the sea always be your ally, that the waves carry you only to victories, and that the wind fills the sails of our freedom. Together we are an invincible force! Glory to Ukraine!» – emphasized Oleg Shiksha.