Greetings of Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Oleksandr Turchynov on the occasion of the Day of Rescue Worker

Dear rescuers, workers, and veterans of civil defense of the country! I congratulate you on the professional holiday!

The State Emergency Service of Ukraine is an important link in the sphere of national security and defense, and a reliable shield from natural and man-made disasters for citizens.

Risking your own life, you are ready to serve people every day, selflessly and heroically. You are always the first, always there if protection and help are needed. You defended the country from the Chernobyl disaster, fighting the fire; from the first days of Russian aggression, you have protected the citizens of Donbas from hostile shellings, delivered humanitarian aid, and evacuated people from dangerous areas.

Today, side by side with the Armed Forces and law enforcement officers, you defend Ukraine at the front line, every day eliminate the effects of enemy artillery fire, terrorist attacks and sabotage, and demine territories, saving lives of military and civilians.

Thanks to your extraordinary courage and sacrifice, determination and heroism, round-the-clock combat readiness, Ukraine is reliably protected from natural and man-made disasters. Last year, more than 112 thousand pieces of explosive materials were neutralized, almost 70 thousand hectares of land were demined, around 4 thousand people during the elimination of emergency situations were saved.

May the memory and honor of the fallen heroes live forever! We remember you and will never forget your feat!

The professionalism of people in this heroic profession is highly appreciated abroad as well, - our rescuers have repeatedly provided assistance to other countries in the elimination of natural disasters.

I wish you endurance, vitality, fortitude, and love of your dearest! Always come back from tasks alive and intact!