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On the third anniversary of Russia\u2019s full-scale invasion, Ukrainian soldiers undergoing training as part of Operation INTERFLEX held a memorial event to honour the fallen defenders and civilians who became victims of Russian aggression.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n The commemoration began with a Divine Liturgy in the Orthodox tradition, led by a Ukrainian military chaplain. Soldiers had the opportunity to pray together, receive the sacraments of confession and communion, and find spiritual support. A deeply touching moment was the presentation of children\u2019s drawings\u2014small symbols of love and encouragement from home.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n The main memorial ceremony was attended by chaplains from the United Kingdom, Canada, and New Zealand. The event opened with a minute of silence, followed by a powerful collective performance of the Ukrainian national anthem.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n A particularly moving part of the event was the musical tribute by C4U Ladies\u2019 Choir\u2014a choir of Ukrainian women who had to leave their homes due to the war. Their patriotic songs, filled with love for Ukraine, were dedicated to the soldiers training under Operation INTERFLEX.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Through music, the choir expressed its gratitude, solidarity, and admiration for the defenders\u2019 courage. The response was deeply emotional\u2014many soldiers stood up during certain songs, some sang along, and others captured the moment on video, their eyes filled with warmth.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n For C4U Ladies\u2019 Choir, it was an incredible honor to sing for those who protect Ukraine and defend the values of the free world. \u201cWe are infinitely grateful for the way they listened to us, the warmth in their eyes, the way they clapped\u2026 but most of all\u2014for protecting us.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Father Sviatoslav Yurkiv, a military chaplain of Operation INTERFLEX, shared:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n “These days are a time of remembrance and reflection. Together with our warriors, we started Sunday with the Divine Liturgy, praying for the Ukrainian army, the wounded, civilians, and those in captivity. The day continued with an official memorial ceremony involving chaplains from partner countries. The final touch was the performance by the Ukrainian choir from Canterbury, whose music uplifted the fighting spirit and reinforced our love for our culture and traditions. We are sincerely grateful to everyone who supports us in this struggle.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\r\n<\/blockquote>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Olena Nizalova the Choir Chair and C4U Trustee, emphasized: \u201cThrough music, we not only support each other but also remind the world of the importance of justice for Ukraine and the entire world.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n This memorial event became a powerful symbol of unity, resilience, and international support for Ukraine, highlighting the deep connection between Ukrainians and those who stand with them in the fight for justice.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n <\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n