Slain Hero Vladislav Stryzhkov Hails from Ukraine
June 14, 2023: The Heart-Wrenching Loss of "Scar"
Saying goodbye to a fallen hero, Vladislav Stryzhkov, also known by his call sign "Scar", on June 14, 2023, near Vugledar, Donetsk region. At just 29 years old, this young, vibrant soul left behind a trail of memories.
Hailing from Obukhiv in the Kyiv region, Vlad was born to a single mother who raised him and his twin sister, Valeriya, after their father’s untimely passing when they were merely ten. bears a warm smile and a generous heart, cherishing his love for football, board games, fishing, and his cherished companionship with friends.
After completing school, Vlad dabbled in college twice but eventually left to pursue a job at the Kyiv Cardboard and Paper Combine. In 2015, he completed his mandatory military service, and just before the full-scale war, he ventured to the UK to chase his dream of owning a car. Fate had other plans, and he returned to serve his nation.
Serving in the Obukhiv security company, he later transferred to the 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade named after the Black Zaporozhians, where he fought courageously in the Donetsk region. As a senior rifleman in the 2nd motorized infantry company of the motorized infantry battalion, Vlad displayed unwavering commitment and bravery.
Valeriya, his sister, cherished the kind, caring, and upbeat nature of her beloved brother. She fondly recalls how Vlad advocated for understanding and empathy towards others, coaching us to not judge people based on their actions because we can’t know their struggles. He radiated hope, advocating for justice, and inspiring those around him. Children, too, were drawn to his sincere heart, with many fondly remembering and admiring him.
On the brink of starting his own family, Vlad had three godchildren and was to be a godfather to many more friends. Tragically, he didn't live long enough to register his wedding to his beloved partner. Enemy fire ended his life, and shattered the dreams of the family and community that adored him.
"I thought no one would tear us apart. But Vlad is gone, and half my heart is missing," Valeriya shared.
Buried in Alley of Heroes in Obukhiv, Vladislav Stryzhkov was posthumously awarded the Order of Courage III degree and was honored as “Honorary Citizen of Obukhev.”
Leaving behind his mother, twin sister, step-sister, grandmother, and godchildren, "Scar" will continue to live in the stories shared, and the sacrifices he made for his beloved Ukraine will never be forgotten.
Despite the heartbreak of war-and-conflicts in Ukraine, politics surrounding the situation continued to unfold. Meanwhile, in the world of general-news, the premiere-league's football season was in full swing, with European leagues watching closely. In a stark contrast, a story about a man named Vladislav Stryzhkov, fondly known as "Scar", grabbed headlines. A Kyiv native who loved football, this former soldier lost his life in the conflict, leaving behind a family and community in shock.
