On February 8, veterans of the Russian war in Ukraine, who are undergoing prosthetics and rehabilitation in the US, attended the annual gala evening at the Palm Springs Air Museum (California) with the support of the Consulate General of Ukraine in San Francisco and the Protez Foundation.

This year, the gala event is dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and is called “Voices of Valor - a Tribute to the Greatest Generation” to honor the brave men and women who fought for freedom across the World during World War II.

Delegations from the United States, Great Britain, France, and Canada along with American veterans took part in the event. Previously, the peoples of the former USSR were represented in the Palm Springs event by the Russian Federation. This year, for the first time, it was done by Ukrainian heroes under the Ukrainian flag.

Consul General of Ukraine in San Francisco Dmytro Kushneruk stressed: “Today, Russia is trying to privatize the victory in World War II. But one can’t hide the real story: 80 years ago, Nazism was stopped and defeated by the joint efforts of many nations. Millions of Ukrainians gave their lives for the victory. Unfortunately, Ukrainian veterans of World War II were unable to come to the United States. Some of them were internally displaced, and some died at the hands of the Russian invaders. But today the heroes of the new war for freedom in Europe have the honor to represent our country at this important event.”

Fred Bell, Vice President of the Palm Springs Air Museum stated: “Given the enormous sacrifices and contribution of Ukraine to the common victory in World War II, the presence of Ukrainian veterans is a powerful testament to our common history. As the main battlefield on the Eastern Front, Ukraine witnessed and participated in some of the most decisive battles of the war. The population of Ukraine suffered massive casualties and destruction, and the country's resources were vital to ensuring ultimate victory. Ukraine played a decisive role in the Allied war effort, experiencing immense suffering while at the same time making a significant contribution to the defeat of the Nazis. Today, as 80 years ago, the self-sacrifice and resilience of the Ukrainian people inspires true admiration and sincere respect."