May 23 marks Heroes' Day and Marine Corps Day in Ukraine: history, significance, and traditions

On May 23, Ukraine celebrates two significant holidays at once—Heroes’ Day and Ukrainian Navy Day. Both dates are linked to pivotal moments in Ukraine’s history of liberation and hold special significance amid a full-scale war. Learn more about the history of these holidays, their connection to 20th-century events, and the role of the Marine Corps in defending Ukraine

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Every year on May 23, Ukraine marks two important dates: Heroes’ Day, dedicated to honoring those who fought for the country’s freedom and independence, and Ukrainian Armed Forces Marine Corps Day. Both holidays have deep historical roots and are linked to key events in Ukraine’s nation-building.

Why this particular date, whom Ukrainians honor on May 23, and how the Marine Corps developed—we’ll explain further in this article.

Why is Heroes’ Day celebrated on May 23?

The date of May 23 was not chosen by chance. On this day in 1938, Yevhen Konovalets—a colonel in the Army of the Ukrainian People’s Republic and one of the key fighters for Ukraine’s independence—was killed. Three years later, in 1941, the Second Grand Assembly of the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists decided to celebrate Heroes’ Day every year on May 23—specifically to honor Konovalets and other Ukrainians who gave their lives for a free state.

May has generally become a landmark month in Ukrainian liberation history. Two other iconic figures of the 20th century passed away this month: Mykola Mikhnovsky, the ideologist of Ukrainian independence, and Symon Petliura, the chief commander of the UNR forces and head of the UNR Directory.

To whom is Heroes of Ukraine Day dedicated?

The holiday unites the memory of Ukraine’s defenders from various eras. Among those honored on May 23 are:

• the knights of Rus-Ukraine;
• the Cossacks of the Hetmanate era;
• the Haidamaks and Opryshky;
• the Sich Riflemen;
• the soldiers of the UNR Army;
• fighters of the OUN and UPA;
• the heroes of the Heavenly Hundred;
• servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine who are defending Ukraine in the full-scale Russian-Ukrainian war.

Thus, the holiday encompasses the entire millennia-long history of Ukrainians’ struggle for the right to live freely on their own land.

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How has the celebration of Heroes’ Day changed?

Until 1991, Heroes’ Day was observed exclusively underground—public commemoration was impossible under the Soviet regime. After the restoration of independence, the holiday began to emerge from the shadows. It was celebrated particularly actively in Western Ukraine: ceremonies were held, flowers were laid, and memorial services were conducted.

Currently, Heroes’ Day does not have official state status, but the tradition grows stronger every year. After Russia’s full-scale invasion began in 2022, the holiday took on a new dimension. Hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians stood up to defend the state, and the concept of a “hero” became part of the country’s everyday reality. Today, Ukrainians honor both the heroes of the past and modern defenders who continue the fight for freedom and independence.

Ukrainian Navy Day: From Hetman Skoropadsky’s Decree to the Present Day

On May 23, 1918, Hetman Pavlo Skoropadsky issued a decree to the Naval Department “On the commencement of the formation of a Marine Corps brigade consisting of three regiments for active duty.” This date became the starting point in the history of the Ukrainian Marine Corps.

The professional holiday of the Marine Corps was established in 2014, but was originally celebrated on November 16—a date associated with the approval and first swearing-in of a Marine Corps soldier in 1992. In 2018, by Presidential Decree No. 145/2018, the date was changed to May 23—in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Ukrainian Revolution and the first experience of Ukrainian statehood in the 20th century.

May 23 is an opportunity not only to honor the heroes but also to express your support. Patriotic merchandise is available on the Visit Ukraine portal — clothing and accessories created with respect for Ukrainian defenders and symbols of the struggle for freedom. Each item carries meaning and serves as a reminder of those who stand in defense of the country.

Order patriotic Visit Ukraine merchandise — support Ukraine in style and with purpose!

The Marine Corps in Full-Scale War

Since 2014, Ukrainian marines have become the embodiment of resilience and combat readiness. They were among the first to confront the enemy on the eastern and southern fronts, defended Mariupol, and held the most challenging sections of the front in Donetsk and Kherson regions.

During the full-scale invasion, Marine units demonstrated their ability to act decisively and professionally under any conditions.

The Marines remain one of the most combat-ready components of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and carry out combat missions on many critical sections of the front.

The Visit Ukraine team congratulates everyone involved in this day—all those who have fought and are fighting for Ukraine’s freedom. We remember every hero of the past and bow our heads to those who are defending our country today.

Eternal glory to the fallen, strength and endurance to the living!

Reminder! Earlier, we reported on how many Ukrainians plan to return home after the war.

Photo: Magnific

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