Press Release
For Immediate Release
Ukrainian Defenders to Take On 50-Mile Warrior Yomp Challenge in Washington, DC
Sponsored by DC-based nonprofit United Help Ukraine, a team of 10 Ukrainian wounded defenders join the long-distance hike for rehabilitation and endurance
Washington, DC, Nov. 2, 2026 – United Help Ukraine (UHU), with the support of the Embassy of Ukraine in the United States, is proud to bring a team of Ukrainian defenders to the Amazon LEO Warrior Yomp 2026, taking place Nov. 7–8 in the Washington, DC area.
Organized by the Allied Forces Foundation (AFF), the third annual U.S. Warrior Yomp is a long-distance march for wounded, injured, and ill service members and veterans of allied nations. The challenge is to finish the Bronze (25 miles), Silver (36 miles), or Gold (50 miles) stage in 24 hours or less. The participants from all backgrounds share in the effort and the sense of accomplishment that comes with finishing this challenge, whether individually or as part of a team.
The Warrior Yomp begins at 8 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at the Belle Haven Picnic Area. The route runs through Old Town Alexandria, along the Mount Vernon Trail into Washington, DC, then along the C&O Trail and back to the Belle Haven Picnic Area. Checkpoints include the embassies of Canada, Denmark, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine. Participants have until 8 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 8, to return to Belle Haven and complete the 50-mile course.
For UHU’s team of 10 wounded defenders, who have fought on the frontlines defending Ukraine in Russia’s war of aggression, Yomp 2026 will be a significant contribution to their rehabilitation process and offer a chance to test their resilience. It is also an opportunity to build camaraderie with servicemen and veterans from other countries, celebrating their shared strength.
Leading the team is Major General (ret.) Volodymyr Havrylov, head of the Veterans Dozen Foundation and a decorated Ukrainian officer whose career has encompassed military and diplomatic service, as well as work supporting the rehabilitation of Ukraine’s servicemen and veterans.
Said Volodymyr Havrylov:
“Every one of our wounded defenders has already faced extraordinary challenges. Taking on a demanding event like Yomp in the United States is a new step in their physical and psychological rehabilitation, an opportunity to test their limits and discover what they can still accomplish. Just as important is the experience of walking side by side, on American soil, with veterans from allied nations who share an understanding of service and sacrifice. The sense of camaraderie and the support they receive here mean a great deal to our defenders, especially as their fellow Ukrainians continue fighting for our country’s freedom and independence.”
Said Maryna Baydyuk, President and CEO of UHU:
“We are thrilled to support Ukrainian defenders’ participation in the Warrior Yomp for the second consecutive year. These extraordinary men have given so much to their country, and we are honored to play a part in their recovery and help them find new ways to continue serving Ukraine. We want to make this experience as meaningful and beneficial for them as possible. Our goal is also to help them share their message that Ukraine continues to fight and stands strong, and to see firsthand the tremendous support and admiration Americans have for Ukraine and those who defend it.”
For more information about the U.S. Warrior Yomp, visit the Allied Forces Foundation’s webpage.
For interviews with team members, photo opportunities, or other media requests, contact Victoria Odinotska (see contact information below). Ukrainian journalists are invited to coordinate with UHU for virtual or in-person interviews and coverage opportunities.
About United Help Ukraine
Founded in 2014, United Help Ukraine (UHU) is a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to provide the people of Ukraine with critical support, enabling them to survive in the face of adversity, defend and regain their sovereign territory, and rebuild and thrive in the future. UHU has provided over $92.9 million in humanitarian, medical, psychological and other assistance to those harmed by Russia’s unprovoked aggression and advocates for a free, democratic and independent Ukraine.
CONTACT:
Victoria Odinotska at victoria.vita@gmail.com and victoria@kanterpr.com
