SBU Academy hosted graduation ceremony of young officers.156 cadets were promoted to the military rank of lieutenant.

At the official graduation ceremony, the Chairman of the Security Service of Ukraine Ivan Bakanov congratulated his future colleagues.

"You are young professionals. You are becoming direct participants in the changes within the SBU. But there are things that should remain the same for the employee of the Service. It is professionalism, decency, humanity, honor and dignity. In any event, remain professionals and patriots of your country! And then the trust of Ukrainians in the SBU will always be living up, "Ivan Bakanov addressed the graduates.

He stressed that graduation 2021 had an opportunity to start a career in the security sector at a symbolic time: on the eve of the 30th anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence Day and in the course of reforming in the special service. And this, according to him, places additional responsibilities on young officers.

The head of the SBU called them to remember the Heroes of the special service who died during combat missions in the east. This course was named after one of them - Captain Hennadii Bilichenko.

The graduates observed a minute of silence in memory of the fallen employees and laid flowers at the Wall of Remembrance of Heroes, which is located in the building of the Service.

The wife of the fallen Captain Natalia Bilichenko performed before officers and wished the young people to master the profession in effect in order to protect the country from Russian aggression as soon as possible.

"My husband has become a guardian angel not only for our family, but also for your course. I understand that your path cannot be easy, because you have chosen a very responsible, high-risk service. And I wish you the best ways of life! I wish you to burn the candle at both ends, but not burn yourself out. Work diligently, but at the same time find time for yourself, your family, your life. Strive for best, but always stay decent, "she said.

Finally, Ivan Bakanov wished the officers that service for the sake of Ukraine was not a duty but a vocation for them.