Today marks 83 years since the heroic battle for the Ukrainian village of Sokolove — an event that became one of the brightest examples of extraordinary courage, resilience, and unity of people in the fight against Nazism.
In early March 1943, the Kharkiv region became one of the most dramatic theaters of military operations of World War II.
Nazi troops were advancing from the south and southeast on Kharkiv. To prevent the enemy from entering the city, a defensive line was organized in the area of Zmiyev, Taranivka, and Merefa. One of the fiercest places of confrontation was the border of the Mzhi River near the village of Sokolove.
It was here, on March 8, 1943, that the Separate Czechoslovak Battalion under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Ludvík Svoboda fought its first battle with the Nazi invaders. The main forces of the battalion occupied the left bank of the Mžia River, while the defense on the right bank was held by the machine gun company of First Lieutenant Jaroslav Lom, the mortar platoon of Second Lieutenant František Bedřich, and the first infantry company of First Lieutenant Otakar Jarosz.
That battle was a real test of courage and devotion to military duty. Almost the entire company died, holding back the enemy's advance. However, the order was carried out - the Nazi troops were unable to break through to Kharkov across the Mzhy line. This feat will forever go down in history as an example of heroism and self-sacrifice.
Today we gathered at the mass graves to honor the memory of the fallen, to lay flowers, to bow our heads in a moment of silence before their feat, and to remember with gratitude those who, at the cost of their own lives, defended our land and the future of future generations.
In our time, Ukrainians are once again forced to defend their state. The story of the heroes of Sokolov reminds us of the high price of freedom and how important it is to remain united in the fight for our country.
Eternal memory to the fallen heroes.
Glory to all who fought against Nazism during World War II.
Glory to all who defend Ukraine today. 🇺🇦