Mother and son serving together: a story for International Day of Families

On May 15, on International Day of Families, we remember thousands of Ukrainian families separated and scattered worldwide due to cruel Russian aggression, and we also share the story of an extraordinary family where both mother and son have stood up to defend their homeland.

Mother and son – Viktoria and Maksym – serve together in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, in the Kniazivska Brigade. Both are junior sergeants, writes the 14th Mechanised Brigade named after Prince Roman the Great. “They have very similar light-gray radiant eyes. When they meet, the son tenderly embraces his mother, although he tries to do it in a restrained, masculine manner,” the text says.

Viktoria dreamed of serving in the military for 15 years, but she only fulfilled her desire four years ago. “It’s important for me to feel part of something big and important in Ukraine and in the world. Of course, it’s not easy, but moving forward always gives strength,” says the military woman.

Maksym joined the military six months after his mother. “He says he really wanted the service to be clear and understandable,” the text says.

In the area of combat operations, mother and son rarely have to meet despite serving in the same brigade. However, their brief encounters powerfully recharge them and provide the strength to continue fighting, according to the 14th Separate Mechanized Brigade named after Prince Roman the Great.

By her example, Viktoria has taught her son important things in life. “To make my son love books from childhood, we used to read them alternately. Mom – five pages, and two – son. I never raised my voice at my son; on the contrary, I tried to educate him with kind words.”

“There was a case when my son’s classmates talked about how they are scolded at home during an argument. The boys tell their stories, and my Maksym keeps silent. They ask him, and he says: ‘I’m not scolded; I’m loved!’ This is very important, especially in our time: to feel the child, his mood, desires, and aspirations. And just to support,” says Viktoria.