MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — Three Ukrainian war veterans shared their experiences of war, sacrifice and resilience Sunday during a book presentation at the Milwaukee Central Library.

The event centered around Mykola Melnyk's recently published book, "My Maidan: War, Love, Struggle."

Melnyk served as a company commander in the Ukrainian Armed Forces and was seriously wounded while fighting in 2023.

He and two fellow Ukrainian veterans spoke about their experiences, including Ukraine's 2014 Revolution of Dignity and the years of conflict that followed. The veterans also answered questions from attendees and signed books.

Wisconsin Ukrainians hosted the event, with organizers saying the turnout was especially meaningful despite Sunday's rainy weather.

"It's very emotional to see that so many people came out," an organizer with Wisconsin Ukrainians said. "I know it's hard when it's raining and it's a Sunday, but it's really encouraging to see our community coming together."

Melnyk was joined by veterans Denys Haida and Oleh Bonchynskyi.

Haida fought for Ukraine in 2014 as the country confronted Russian-backed separatists seeking to break away from Ukraine.

Bonchynskyi served from 2015 until 2025, participating in some of the war's most intense fighting before being seriously wounded last year.

The presentation gave Milwaukee-area residents an opportunity to hear directly from the veterans about their experiences while showing support for the local Ukrainian community.