It is a most daunting task to find something about the Russian invasion of Ukraine that could in any way be considered in a positive light. The Russians have the Ukrainians outmanned, outgunned, and out experienced. But, even in the midst of the horror of war inspiration can be found in the bravery of the individual or in the group.
This is the story of thirteen brave Ukrqainins who have passed, but will never die. They were left alone to guard and protect the small island of Zmiinyi located in the Black Sea. They were confronted by a Russian warship and they were ordered to lay down their arms peacefully and to surrender themselves as prisoners of the invaders. There was no hope that this small band could withstand the power and the destructive might of the Russian warship, but these thirteen heroes would not be deterred.
It was General Robert E Lee, who observed at the battle of Fredericksburg that:
“It is well that war is so terrible. Otherwise, we would grow too fond of it.”
That is as true today as it was in his time. But, even during the horror of war, we can find a glimmer of hope that can transcend that horror and remind people of the beauty of the human spirit. These are dark times for the country of Ukraine, one from which they will likely never recover but some memories will live on.
When the Russian warship delivered its message to these 13 brave souls, their reply may not make a book of famous quotes but their spirit will long be remembered as they replied, “Russian warship, go f*** yourself!”
With that, the warship opened fire and thirteen brave souls left this world for what we all hope is a better one, worthy of their grit and determination.
The story of 13 Ukrainian soldiers who refused to surrender their island to a Russian warship and their final defiant message is going viral.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy confirmed the story in a statement Thursday that said the 13 soldiers would be honored for their bravery.
“All the defenders of the island of Zmiinyi died, but did not surrender,” the president later confirmed.
“All of them will be named Heroes of Ukraine,” he said.
