SUM branches mark anniversary of Battle of Kruty

by Andriy Bihun

ELLENVILLE, N.Y. - Members of area branches of the Ukrainian American Youth Association (SUM), on January 30 honored the memory of young Ukrainian student-heroes of the Battle of Kruty, which took place on January 29, 1918. At the Kruty rail station, hundreds of young students were brutally massacred as they defended their capital, Kyiv, from an attacking force of Bolsheviks under the command of M. Muraviev.

Taking part in the commemorative outing of their Ellenville estate were young members from the New York and Goshen, N.Y., and Passaic, Irvington and Whippany, N.J., branches of SUM. The activities began with a solemn commemorative ceremony recalling the heroes of Kruty, a wreath-laying at the Monument to Heroes, the playing of taps and a minute of silence.

Following these opening ceremonies, both younger and older children took part in planned events, including terrain games, where opposing teams vied for victory using their knowledge of Ukrainian historic events and events surrounding the Battle of Kruty.

There was time for relaxation as well, as children later took advantage of the snowy weather by sledding and enjoying other outdoor activities. The day's events were concluded around a bonfire, with a brief presentation by counselors who again reminded the participants about the children and youths who gave their lives for their country at Kruty. Although these young people will never be known by name, their memory will remain a symbol of young national idealism and heroism.

Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, March 7, 1999, No. 10, Vol. LXVII

| Home Page |