On the eve of the anniversary of Russia’s unprovoked attack on Ukraine, America’s Freedom Bell rang 365 times.

The Spirit of Freedom Foundation and the House of Ukraine held a “Welcome Ceremony to Ukraine” on February 23, on the eve of the anniversary of Russia’s unprovoked attack on Ukraine, according to a press release.

The iconic Liberty Spirit Foundation America’s Liberty Bell was moved from Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, DC, back to San Diego for the ceremony. The bell was rung 365 times – one for each day of the year in honor of the heroism of the Ukrainian people and the brave Ukrainian soldiers/freedom fighters.

After the statement of General David Berger, commandant of the Marine Corps, was read, the first person to ring the Liberty Bell was Robert Modrzejewski, one of the few congressional Medal of Honor recipients alive who knows firsthand what it means to fight for freedom.

Modrzejewski delivered an elegant message about the meaning of freedom and his support for Ukraine, according to a press release. Hundreds of people came and rang the bell, including Ukrainian refugees and many local dignitaries. The ceremony was opened with prayers and the performance of the anthem of Ukraine by Father Yuriy Sas from the Ukrainian Catholic Church of St. John the Baptist in San Diego and Rev. Myron Mykhailyuk from the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of St. Mary the Patroness in San Diego.

“It was a powerful statement of support and solidarity with Ukraine, which was broadcast by all seven local TV channels, including the Ukrainian TV channel Voice of America. This was stated in a press release by Richard Rowsek, chairman of the Spirit of Liberty Foundation.