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"HOLODNYI YAR" REGIMENT
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The regiment was formed in Rivne within the weeks of German invasion of Soviet Union.
It was formed from Ukrainian youths and was named "Holodnyi Jar" (Cold ravine) after
a ravine which was a historic place in Ukraino-Bolshevic war in 1920 and had a symbolic
meaning to the nationalists. Total number of men serving in the regiment was around 500,
commanded by Oberst Leonid Stupnytsky. The formation and formal training was provided
in military barraks in Rivne city by Ukrainian officers who served in interwar Polish army.
Besides military training, the youth was also educated on Ukrainian history, legal issues
and how to master different weapons.
The regiment was primarily used for guarding munition sites, but also performed convoy
duties and took part in various rallies. The uniform was composed of soviet khaki shirt,
black pents and black mazepynka (Ukrainian version of Bergmütze) hats. Sometimes, a Soviet
fliegemütze would be worn as well. A round trident badge on the caps and blue and yellow
collar patches gave the regiment very Ukrainian look. Additionaly a blue and yellow armband
was worn with either "Polk Imeni Holodnoho Yaru" or "Im Dienst für Deutsche Wehrmacht" in black.
With establishment of civil administration, the regiment was re-trained as firefighters
and later with worstening of Ukrainian-German relations, had joined UPA (Ukrainian Insurgent Army).

Unknown officer, wearing fliegemütze, with silver piping.
Besides trident badge, there is also a small ribbon attached in Ukrainian collars.
Note the blue and yellow collar patches and another silver
piping around the collar. |
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Marching through the streets of Rivne, 1941.
During a manifestation
During a manifestation
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