My motivation remains the same:
the memory of fallen comrades,
my son and my family,
and the people beside me — my own to the very end.
The SOF is my family. And this path is one I will walk with honour.
I fought in Kharkiv, Kherson, Donetsk, Chernihiv and Zaporizhzhia regions. After being wounded by a TM mine in Kherson region, my path changed — from assault operations to work at a tactical command post.
My call sign is “Malysh”.
I started defending Ukraine in 2014 as part of the “Aidar” volunteer unit. Back then, we had no proper training, no weapons, and no idea how long the war would last. We thought we’d be home by September.
Operators of the SOF Training Center took part in a CrossFit and shooting tournament among special operations units of the Defense Forces of Ukraine, dedicated to the memory of Hero of Ukraine Vitaliy “Khvat” Blazhko.
I met the full-scale invasion in the field and immediately rejoined my old team.
Kyiv region, Makariv, Kharkiv, Donetsk, Mykolaiv, Kherson, Avdiivka, Chasiv Yar.
Now I serve as an instructor on the SUT phase of the Q Course.
My call sign is “Shmel”.
I joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine in 2016, starting with compulsory service in the Border Guard Service.
Later, on a friend’s advice, I joined the newly formed 47th Special Forces Detachment.
Graduation of the 25th SOF Qualification Course
Another class of special operators has completed the highest level of military training available in Ukraine this week. SOF Commander Maj. Gen. Trepak congratulated the graduates and presented them with their qualification insignia.
The biggest motivation — the people around me. Absolute warriors. Courage, honour, no limits. Knowing your actions turn the enemy into fertiliser — that hits different.
SOF is family. Some brothers stay with you forever.
My path to the SOF started after watching Oleksii Chubashev’s “Recruit.” In 2020, I joined the 142nd SOF Training Centre — aiming to be among professionals who live their craft.
Kyiv. Kharkiv. Donetsk. Chernihiv. Zaporizhzhia.
My call sign is “Thor.”
I joined the military in 2014 — no doubts, that time made the choice for me. After my contract, I tried civilian life, but came back to what I do best.