Today, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy conferred the rank of brigadier general on the Commander of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine, Denys “Redis” Prokopenko.
Denys Prokopenko joined Azov in the summer of 2014. He rose from a soldier to brigadier general. He took part in the battles for Marinka and Ilovaisk, and during the fighting for Shyrokyne, he was already commanding a company. At the age of 26, he became commander of the Separate Special Forces Detachment Azov, the youngest commander in the history of the National Guard of Ukraine and the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
This was followed by combat on the Svitlodarsk arc, the defense of Mariupol, and captivity. Upon returning from captivity, “Redis” immediately resumed his duties as commander of the 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov and later became commander of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine.
Denys Prokopenko’s contribution to Azov’s development and his combat record cannot be overstated. He is looked up to by many, and his dedication to the defense of Ukraine commands admiration. He stands as an example of a true warrior and a courageous officer of the new Ukrainian military.
The personnel of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine congratulate Denys “Redis” Prokopenko on his new military rank. It is an honor to serve under your command, Commander.
