Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Oleksandr Turchynov took part in the graduation ceremony of officers of the National Academy of the National Guard of Ukraine

Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Oleksandr Turchynov took part in the graduation ceremony of officers of the National Academy of the National Guard of Ukraine and awarded them with diplomas and departmental awards.

Oleksandr Turchynov emphasized that the National Guard was formed "in the most dramatic times when the brutal and powerful enemy attacked Ukraine", and it was the first to enter the battle, allowing to form a defense capable army, restore the potential of the defense industry, and conduct mobilization. "There was no equipment, no heavy weapons, but there was courage and heroism that made it possible to stop the enemy, to start the liberation of Ukraine", - he said.

"That was when the enemy learned that Ukraine has the Guard, the rule of which is "the Guard does not retreat!". I am convinced that this rule will be the law of your life", - Secretary of the NSDC of Ukraine stressed.

Addressing the audience Mr. Turchynov noticed: "You have become officers of the National Guard, commanders, and the state entrusts you with powerful weapons, modern equipment, and most importantly - the state entrusts you with its protection". "I am confident that each of you will become a professional courageous commander who will provide new victories to our Guard", - Secretary of the NSDC pointed out.

Oleksandr Turchynov thanked "those parents who brought up true patriots, true knights who have chosen the protection of their native country as the meaning of their lives".

Today, Secretary of the NSDC of Ukraine will also participate in the opening of the updated department of the Border Guard Service "Topolya" of the Kharkiv border squad.