On September 29, 2024, the former commander of the 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade (OMBr) Ivan Vinnik published an appeal to the military after his resignation from his post. Colonel Winnick, who has led the brigade since the summer of 2022, expressed his gratitude to his team for their support in the conditions of difficult service and difficult challenges.
The commander of the 72nd separate mechanized brigade named after the Black Zaporozhets, Colonel Ivan Vinnik, was appointed to a higher position. The officer turned to his brothers and thanked them. This was reported in the press service of the brigade on Facebook.
"Gentlemen, officers, sergeants, soldiers! From the summer of 2022 to today, I had a long and difficult journey. But it was not difficult, because I did not overcome it alone. A loyal and motivated team was nearby. Thank you to each and every one of you for your patience, will and strength. Thank you for listening, hearing, talking, offering. Thank you for the joint struggle. Thank you for being there. I really appreciate it!” - said Ivan Vinnik.
According to him, it is an honor for him to be a part of the "Black Zaporozhets", while the connection formed between them will remain forever.
"Study. fight Do not give up and walk confidently towards our Victory," he added.
Vinnik's appointment to another position: what is known
On September 20, OC "Pivnich" reported that the commander of the 72nd OMBr Ivan Vinnik was appointed to a higher position for promotion and transfer of combat experience.
"Colonel Vinnik is an example of a true and honest combat officer, an experienced and humane commander. Under his leadership, the brigade went through a difficult path, but it decently kept the directions of defense determined for it. First there was Bakhmut, then Vugledar, where in January-February 2023 the brigade was able to repulse one of the largest offensives during the Russian-Ukrainian war," the message reads.
It will be recalled that on September 25, the mass media reported that the fighters of the 72nd OMBr were allegedly retreating from Vugledar in Donbas. However, at that time, the servicemen noted in a conversation with Focus that they were holding back.
On September 26, a fighter of the 72nd OMBr denied the exit of the brigade from Vugledar, Donetsk region. He noted that despite heavy assaults and circumstances, the fighters remain in place.
