On May 24, 2025, the annual Soldier Field 10 run took place in Chicago, USA. Held traditionally ahead of Memorial Day, the event is one of the key commemorations honoring fallen service members. For the third consecutive year, a Ukrainian delegation participated in this iconic race as part of the Run for Ukraine initiative.
This year’s team included 15 participants, 13 of whom are active-duty soldiers wounded in action while defending Ukraine against Russian aggression. The delegation was led by retired Major General Volodymyr Havrylov, head of the Veteran’s Ten charitable foundation.
“The finish line was so emotional – there were tears not only in our team’s eyes but also among many locals,” Havrylov said. “Even members of the legendary band AC/DC, who had a concert in Chicago that day, came up to us. They expressed their support and concern for Ukraine. Our guys delivered an outstanding performance – running with dignity despite all challenges. I’m incredibly proud of our team.”
They expressed their support and concern for Ukraine. Our guys delivered an outstanding performance – running with dignity despite all challenges. I’m incredibly proud of our team.
The Soldier Field 10 run was not only a symbolic gesture of solidarity but also a chance for Ukrainian soldiers to share their experiences, connect with US veterans, and show resilience and the journey of returning to active life after injury. Each year, the Ukrainian team’s participation garners deep respect and strong support from the local community.
The delegation’s program also included visits to Greek Catholic and Orthodox churches, meetings with school students, interviews on local radio, and trips to the Ukrainian History Museum, the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, and other cultural sites linked to Ukrainian heritage in the US
This visit also served as an opportunity to express gratitude to the American people for their continued support of Ukraine in its struggle for freedom and justice.
The Ukrainian delegation is now returning home, where comrades, family members, and communities are waiting to welcome them back. They return with new impressions, experiences, and – most importantly – a renewed sense that the world sees Ukraine’s fight, supports it, and stands by its side.
The project was made possible with the support of numerous Ukrainian and American partners, including the Kyiv Committee of Chicago Sister Cities International, Revived Soldiers Ukraine, Help Heroes of Ukraine, “Vesna!” Charitable Foundation, and the Ukrainian Running Club Chicago. The general sponsor of the initiative was Infozahyst.