Ukrainian Special Operations Forces Day is celebrated every year on 29 July. The holiday was established by a presidential decree in 2016, the same year the SOF took final shape as a separate branch. Special operators conduct reconnaissance behind enemy lines, sabotage and psychological operations, and work with the resistance movement. We learn about most of their feats only years later. Below are short and formal SOF Day wishes, words from family and comrades, thanks to the operators, poems and ways to support them. Other professional dates for the year are in our calendar of professional holidays in Ukraine.
Happy Special Operations Forces Day! Quiet exits, precise strikes and a safe return home.
Happy holiday to the special operators! Strength, endurance and luck in every mission.
Happy SOF Day! Thank you for the work no one talks about but the enemy feels.
May every task be accomplished and every return be a happy one. Happy holiday!
From family
Son, we do not know where you are or what you do, but we know you are the bravest. We are proud and waiting!
My love, I understand your silence about your service with my heart. Come back; you are always awaited here.
For comrades
Brothers, happy holiday! May comms never fail, routes stay clear and the team always come back complete.
We are the shadow the enemy cannot see. We stand together!
Formal wishes
Dear servicemembers of the Special Operations Forces, please accept our sincere congratulations on your professional holiday. Your professionalism, courage and readiness to act in the toughest conditions bring Ukraine's victory closer.
We wish you good health, strength of spirit, successful operations and peace.
Thanks to the operators
Thank you for feats we may never hear about. Know that the country feels your work.
Eternal memory to the SOF soldiers who died on duty.
How to support defenders on this day
Write personally — a short message to a soldier you know means more than a social media post.
Donate to a unit — fundraisers by brigades and trusted foundations help those serving now.
Send a parcel — treats, warm clothes, letters and children's drawings bring joy at the front.
Support the families — flowers and attention for defenders' mothers, wives and children matter too.
Remember the fallen — a moment of silence and words of gratitude for those who gave their lives for Ukraine.
What to write on a card with flowers
Happy birthday! May this bouquet remind you how many people love you.
For the best moments of the year — flowers, sincere words and hugs.
May every day be as bright as this bouquet.
Happy birthday! Wishing you health, peace and joy in the little things.
Sign the card by hand: even two lines in your handwriting mean more than a long printed message.
SOF Day poems
As silent as a shadow at night, As sudden as thunder by day; May fortune keep you in its sight And guide you safely all the way.
Your deeds stay secret for a while, But Ukraine will never forget; May peace and love await your smile And bring you joy without regret.
How to support the operators
You can support the SOF by donating through official charitable foundations that fund gear, comms and equipment. Operators' families value quiet support and attention. For veterans and those on leave, a restrained bouquet works best: no pomp, but from the heart.
Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.