Yesterday marked the 107th anniversary of the birth of Zinovy Tershakovets (“Fedir”), a prominent figure in the national liberation movement, the regional leader of the OUN of Lviv region, commander of the Military District of the UPA “Bug”. His figure belongs to the undeservedly forgotten fighters for the freedom of Ukraine.
The future leader of the OUN of Lviv region was born in Horodochchyna in a patriotic family on August 19, 1913. From an early age he was distinguished by strength of character and love for the Motherland. Already at the age of 16 he joined the ranks of the OUN, actively joined the revolutionary struggle.
“Fedir” was characterized by determination, uncompromising, remarkable intelligence. He successfully avoided arrest by the German and Moscow occupiers several times. On August 19, 1945, Zinovy Tershakovets’ birthday, dozens of NKDB officers surrounded his hideout near the village of Rozdil. With a weapon in his hands, he broke away. Then, in the battle, “Fedir” automatically eliminated two KGB majors, and later destroyed three more occupiers. Using a grenade, he successfully broke away from enemies.
Zinovy Tershakovets’ activity as the regional leader of the OUN of Lviv region was the most fruitful. He effectively commanded the underground movement in the region, organized a series of high-profile actions against the occupiers and collaborators. At the same time, Tershakivets paid a lot of attention to supporting the Ukrainian population, in particular, helping refugees from eastern Ukraine who came to Galicia in the midst of the third Holodomor.
Roman Shukhevych highly valued “Fedir”, setting him as an example to other regional leaders. Thanks to the wisdom, determination and energy of Zinovy Tershakovets, the OUN network of Lviv region became the strongest territorial unit within the liberation movement.