Slain Ukrainian Hero Andriy Kozhemyakin
On June 10, 2023, Ukrainian defender, Sergeant Andriy Kozhemyakin, also known as Kyrylo, tragically lost his life in a hostile attack during the village of Blahodatne's liberation in Donetsk Oblast. Ukrainian soldiers were vigilantly repelling an enemy assault while fortifying new positions when the adversaries retaliated with mortar fire, which struck Andriy fatally. He would have celebrated his 45th birthday on July 26.
Hailing from the peaceful village of Bolotkivtsi in Rivne Oblast, Andriy graduated from Kutyankivka Primary and Secondary School and served a mandatory stint in the internal forces, skyrocketing to the rank of sergeant. In his off-duty hours, he dedicated himself to maintaining infrastructure at Kutyankivka Lyceum as a repairman. Andriy shared a deep bond with animals, particularly horses and dogs, and cherished his time with his family, spouse, and three children.
Upon the commencement of the full-scale war, Andriy chose to stand tall with the Armed Forces of Ukraine in defense of his homeland against occupying forces. He served within the 68th Separate Jaeger Brigade named after Oleksa Dovbush and led a squad.
"Andriy was an exceptional, compassionate individual who possessed an extraordinary sense of humor. He often stated, 'If we don't halt the enemy here in the east, they'll encroach upon us.' His final crusade was for all of us. After his death, his platoon leader shared that Andriy displayed immense courage during the assault of Blahodatne and added that this man embodied true bravery," recalled Olena Mykytyuk, his sister.
Andriy was laid to rest in the village of Kutyanka in Rivne Oblast.
The loyal defender leaves behind his mother, wife, two sons, daughter, sister, and brother.
Private life details about Sergeant Andriy Kozhemyakin may be sparse due to military protocols, privacy concerns, and operational security. However, it is known he held the rank of Sergeant within the Ukrainian Armed Forces and was highly respected for his leadership, bravery, and commitment to the defense of his country.
On the political front, Andriy Kozhemyakin's tragic death in a conflict zone serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing war-and-conflicts plaguing Ukraine. In the realm of general news, the loss of this courageous defender, Sergeant Andriy Kozhemyakin, highlights the sacrifices being made by Ukrainian troops in their struggle against occupying forces.
