A Saskatchewan man is being honoured for giving the ultimate sacrifice on the front lines in Ukraine.
Winton “Bud” Hardy ’s mother and brother attended at a special ceremony in the town of Outlook on April 13 – where the sacrifice medal was handed out honouring Hardy.
The 41-year-old, who had no formal military experience, chose to help overseas as Ukrainians fight to defend their country against the Russian invasion.
“While it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever had to accept, I was proud of Bud’s choice and his bravery. Even though my heart was heavy with worry, he stepped into something bigger than himself,” Bud’s mother, Diane Hardy, told the crowd Sunday.
“He wanted to help in the defense of freedom. ‘What can I say, son? I respect your choice and your powerful desire to help your fellow man.‘”
Hardy was not of Ukrainian descent, but according to Diane, was driven by the need to do what he thought was right.
The family was accompanied by a sizable crowd that packed the Outlook Legion Hall.
A Ukrainian Canadian sacrifice medal was presented on behalf of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) and the Ukrainian War Veterans Association.
“The Ukrainian Canadian Medal of Service is more than just a symbol. It reflects the bravery of those who have stood against tyranny, upheld democratic values and defended the fundamental rights of others at great personal cost,” UCC Executive Director Danylo Puderak explained.
The sacrifice medal features maple leaves and the Ukrainian symbol – the “tryzub.”
In total, 13 Canadians have died in Ukraine since 2022 – when the medal was established.
In May, another ceremony will be held for Joseph Hildebrand of Swift Current, who lost his life while serving in Ukraine.
