Colonel Ihor Martyniuk is a true hero whose military path deserves special attention and recognition.

He joined the military in 1987.

In 2014, he participated directly in the anti-terrorist operation in Donetsk and Luhansk regions. With the onset of full-scale invasion, Colonel Ihor Martyniuk was called to military service in the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, where, due to his high organizational and leadership skills and combat experience, he led one of the units of a combined detachment. Before the Ukrainian defenders lay an exceptionally crucial task - to maintain control over one of the outposts in the Kyiv region, which could serve as a gateway for the enemy's advance toward the capital. Under the adept leadership of Colonel Ihor Martyniuk, the detachment meticulously fortified its position, playing a vital role in the defensive stability of the combined unit. Ukrainian border guards diligently carried out their assigned duty, steadfastly holding their ground. Colonel Ihor Martyniuk himself took part in the demolition of bridges and pontoon crossings, thwarting any further enemy advancement.

Amidst the chaos of active enemy artillery fire, the officer spared no effort to safeguard the lives of his comrades. Upon detecting the ominous sound of an approaching enemy shell, Ihor Martyniuk instinctively shielded another officer with his own body, ultimately saving his life.

The intense clashes with the invaders persisted. Border guards faced assaults from enemy units dubbed "kadyrivtsi," comprising infantry, tanks, and BMPs. The enemy unleashed vigorous gunfire and artillery bombardment upon the positions of the Ukrainian Defense Forces. Thanks to Colonel Ihor Martyniuk's steadfast and astute command, significant losses among the detachment's personnel were averted. Under the officer's expert leadership, the detachment engaged the enemy in confrontations that diverted attention and, in collaboration with adjacent units, decimated the enemy forces both head-on and on the flanks. Ukrainian defenders showcased extraordinary military prowess, commitment, and bravery: they executed their combat duties and held their ground. Ihor Martyniuk never shied away, always standing shoulder to shoulder with his comrades. Fellow soldiers commend the border guard as a courageous, determined individual who leads by example and never abandons anyone in distress.

For his personal courage and selfless actions demonstrated in defense of the state sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, and his loyalty to the military oath, Colonel Ihor Martyniuk was awarded the Presidential award "Cross of Military Merit." The award was presented today by Volodymyr Zelenskyi.