The international delegation, headed by Ana Lucía Bueno, ICRC Public Health Coordinator, and Sujit Panda, Head of the Physical Rehabilitation…
From a young age, “Mars” was fascinated by machinery. A trained auto mechanic, he confidently operated tractors and later worked at a Toyota service center.
His story was shared on the page of the 41st Separate Mechanized Brigade.
“I worked on and repaired all the newest models. I loved the job, and I earned well. But the war made its adjustments”, — he recalls.
After Russia’s full-scale invasion, “Mars” lived through the occupation of his native Kherson. He speaks reluctantly about that period.
“The worst were the collaborators and traitors from the so-called DNR and LNR. They could stop and detain any local in the street for no reason, break into homes under the guise of ‘searches’. My family also endured many horrors”, — he says.
So after Kherson was liberated, he decided to mobilize into the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Although he had never served before, he could not stand aside.
“Mars” has been in the 41st Brigade since the first days of its formation. Thanks to his technical skills, he began service as a tank mechanic-driver.
He went through the fiercest battles in Kharkiv, Donetsk, Sumy regions and participated in the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ Kursk offensive operation.
“There were FPV drone strikes, artillery and mortar shelling. We had to escape from damaged and burning tanks. But thanks to skills, comrades, and God — I survived”, — he said.
Now, as a junior lieutenant, he serves as deputy tank company commander for armaments — a highly responsible role.
“The lives of my comrades and the success of combat missions depend on ensuring tanks and equipment always have fuel and ammunition. I also have to teach younger soldiers what I once learned. And sometimes I get behind the tank controls again”, — he explains.
He has been awarded a medal for the liberation of Kharkiv region, distinctions for participation in the defense of Chasiv Yar and the Kursk offensive operation, and the Defense Minister’s honorary badge “For Exemplary Service”.
“Mars” dreams of Victory — to return to peaceful, quiet Kherson.
