Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday named Sergeant Derusova Inna Nikolaevna as the first woman of his country for the title of 'Hero of Ukraine' posthumously, for displaying exemplary courage and bravery in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
It is the highest honour of Ukraine conferred upon an individual in the country. Apart from Nikolaevna, 105 other servicemen of the Ukrainian military were chosen for the coveted honour.
"I signed two important decrees on awarding 106 servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine who bravely showed themselves in the battle for the independence of Ukraine. 17 of them, unfortunately, posthumously. But they are heroes," the Ukrainian President said on his official Telegram channel.
He said Nikolaevna saved over 10 military personnel, risking her own life. "Sergeant Derusova Inna Nikolaevna. Posthumously. Since February 24, the senior combat medic has performed tasks in the city of Okhtyrka, Sumy region. She saved more than 10 servicemen, risking her own life. She died from artillery by Russian troops, helping the wounded." The first woman – hero of Ukraine, who was posthumously awarded this title," he said in his video address. (UNI)