“PARAGUAY”

Valentyn was born in the city of Khmelnytskyi. From the age of 14, he actively took part in the life of his hometown—as a member of the patriotic organizations “National Corps” and the NGO “Sokil,” and as a supporter of the football club “Podillia.” Locals knew him by the nickname “Bon.” Valentyn’s brothers-in-arms and friends stood him out from others for his cheerful character and his ability to find positive moments even in difficult times. His desire to learn and discover new things was so strong that in 2018 he completed the squad-leader training course at the “Junior Commanders’ School named after Aksyon and Khoma.” Valentyn first went to Donbas at the age of 17 as a volunteer with Right Sector. He was never afraid of the Russian occupiers; by his own example, he inspired young people to join the military and take part together in the defense of Ukraine. In 2018, Valentyn took part in fighting near Marinka and Avdiivka. In 2019, Valentyn completed military training at the Atek training base. After that, he went to serve in the city of Mariupol, where he took the call sign “Paraguay.” Valentyn never stood still. He was always striving to learn more about tactical medicine. In the spring of 2022, he planned to attend TCCC courses to improve his skills, because he knew that the most valuable thing is life—something that can be preserved through properly delivered medical aid. Valentyn met the full-scale war in Mariupol, already as a mortar crew commander in the legendary 12th Operational Assignment Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine “Azov.” He carried out his last mission as part of an infantry group from 20 March 2022 to 22 March 2022, during which he was killed heroically. Valentyn was posthumously awarded the Order “For Courage,” 3rd Class. Sadly, after two long years of waiting, with the help of DNA examination the defender’s body was identified and returned home, where he was laid to rest at the Alley of Glory in Khmelnytskyi. Valentyn is survived by his parents.