QUANTICO, Va. – The Ukrainian American Veterans (UAV) met for their annual National Convention in Marine Corps Base Quantico on October 21-23. Delegates representing 20 posts gathered to discuss important policies, accomplishments and goals. The convention concluded with the election of a new National Executive Board, which will serve a one-year term in 2022-2023.
The COVID-19 pandemic, which has impacted nearly every Ukrainian American organization since 2020, also limited the UAV’s activities. National Commander Ihor Rudko noted how the UAV has been affected by the ongoing pandemic.
“This virus has put a pall over our country and forced our citizens into isolation and quarantine. We shelved many of our programs but continued our community service by communicating through social media. In fact, last year’s convention was virtual and modest when compared to previous gatherings,” Mr. Rudko said.
But the organization has dealt with other struggles as well.
“During the past year our organization lost nearly 40 members due to various ailments that were not connected to COVID-19. Even while under this duress, the UAV continued aiding veterans through our critical programs,” Mr. Rudko said.
Many young people received scholarships and members who found themselves in dire straits received monetary assistance, the national commander said. Veterans helped in presenting colors at public events and honoring veterans at their funerals. UAV commitments to Ukrainian soldiers who needed rehabilitation through loss of limbs have been met and more help is on its way, Mr. Rudko said.
During the convention, delegates discussed humanitarian efforts, welfare grants and the organization’s by-laws. UAV officials said the organization’s goals and policies for the 2022-2023 term will be made public when appropriate.
The final convention agenda item was the formal election of a new UAV National Executive Board. The convention concluded with a modest banquet where the new Executive Board was sworn in for the 2022-2023 term.
Members of the new UAV Executive Board said they are proud to serve in their respective offices. UAV officials invite American veterans who have Ukrainian ancestry to join the organization. The UAV has 20 posts located throughout the United States. If there is no post located nearby, individuals can join as members-at-large. Readers who would like more information can contact Vice Commander Matt Wroblewski, 586-755-9575, mwroblewski@comcast.net, or Publications Officer Bohdan Dudycz, 224-456-8944, uavpublicity@gmail.com.