Black uniforms, traditional Cossack scalp-locks (oseledets), and a motto that left no room for compromise — this was the look of one of the most legendary units of the Ukrainian People's Republic (UNR) Army. Today, this tradition is carried on by the 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and this cover is dedicated to its symbols.

History of the Black Zaporozhians
The regiment's history began in 1918 as a cavalry squadron, which eventually grew into a cavalry division and, in March 1919, officially received its name: the 1st Cavalry Regiment of Black Zaporozhians. They earned this name due to their black uniforms, while their Cossack hats with fabric tails led to the unit being unofficially nicknamed the Chornoshlychnyky ("Black Tails"). The unit had no connection to modern Zaporizhzhia — the name was a tribute to the legendary Zaporozhian Cossacks rather than geography. The regiment's most famous commander was Petro Dachenko, under whose leadership the Black Zaporozhians fought grueling battles during the First Winter Campaign.

The regiment's banner featured the Tryzub with the inscription "1st Cavalry Regiment of Black Zaporozhians" on one side, and the Skull and Crossbones (Adam's Head) with the motto "Ukraine or Death" on the reverse. In this symbolism, the skull signified a contempt for death and absolute resolve to fight to the end — the exact symbol transferred today to the chevron and coat of arms of the 72nd Brigade.

From UNR to the Modern AFU
On August 23, 2017, by Presidential Decree, the 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade received the honorary title "named after the Black Zaporozhians" — though even before that, the enemy referred to it as "Black" for its toughness in battle. At the center of the modern 72nd Brigade emblem sits that same Adam's Head, while the motto "Ukraine or Death" has remained unchanged for over a century. The brigade distinguished itself during the defense of Kyiv in 2022 and in prolonged battles in Donbas, continuing the unbroken tradition of a unit that never retreated even during the UNR era.

A Combat Veteran ID (UBD) cover featuring the symbolism of the 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade "Black Zaporozhians" is a way to pay tribute to both today's brigade fighters and those who marched in the Winter Campaign over a hundred years ago.

Material & Craftsmanship
Handcrafted from genuine Crazy Horse leather — soft and featuring a pronounced vintage texture. Minor traces of wear are a natural characteristic of the material and, over time, only add character to the piece, forming a unique personal patina.

The Adam's Head and motto are applied using deep heat embossing via a metal stamp and press, completely ink-free. The relief is formed directly into the leather structure, staying sharp over years of daily carry.

Two internal pocket size options are available upon order: 5 cm (1.96 in) and 9 cm (3.54 in). Folded size — 8 × 10.5 cm (3.15 × 4.13 inches), single compartment.

Leather colors: Black, Dark Brown, Blue, Green, Cognac Brown, Red, Burgundy (Bordo), Camel / Tan.

Every order comes packed in a gift box — ready for presentation right upon receipt. Order online: same-day or next-day dispatch; if out of stock, we will custom-craft it within 1–2 business days. Payment via bank transfer (IBAN) or Cash on Delivery, 14-day exchange and return policy.

72nd Brigade "Black Zaporozhians" — a brigade carrying the name of a regiment that chose "Ukraine or Death" as its motto over a century ago and remains faithful to it to this day.