August 23, 2023
“Azovets” Sergey Burenok, call sign Yenot, died on August 23, 2023, in the area of Kremenna city in Luhansk Oblast. While performing a combat mission, he came under enemy mortar shelling and suffered fatal injuries. Just four days before, on August 19, the defender turned 22 years old.
Sergey Yurievich was born in Novi Petrivtsi village, Kyiv Oblast. He graduated from Novopetrivska School No. 2. Later, he studied at the college of the Kyiv National Economic University. He served his conscription in the internal troops of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine in Donetsk. He then worked as a sushi chef in a restaurant and later as an administrator. He was always active and loved sports. He was a football fan and actively supported FC “Dynamo” (Kyiv). He played for the “Mezhigirya” football team and won many awards and certificates in competitions.
When the full-scale war began, Sergey could not stay aside, so he signed a contract. For five months, he defended the city of Bahmut as part of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Although his age allowed him not to go to war, his desire to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine was strong. Eventually, he joined the 12th Special Purpose Brigade “Azov,” continuing his fight for his homeland.
“Sergey was a cheerful person, his eyes were full of zest for life; he lived it here and now. I have never seen such an optimistic person – even when things were bad, he looked at the bright side. I never heard him complain about how hard it was. He was a real man with a steel character, confidently moving towards his goal. He always wanted to be the first, had a talent for leadership skills. He said that military service is ‘the best profession in the world.’ In response to worries and requests from relatives, he said, ‘Who, if not me? I am not one to be afraid; I know what I’m getting into. If everyone hides, then what will happen to all of us and our country?’ He was always a support and a strong shoulder for his family. This brave guy also had big plans for the future. He wanted to be independent, build a career, and create a strong and happy family. He wanted to start his own business that would bring profit and satisfaction. He became a true professional in military affairs and was always ready to fulfill his duties. His comrades always valued him as a reliable and courageous soldier who was willing to sacrifice everything for his people. His courage, bravery, and honor will always be an example for all of us!” – said the beloved Nina Olifir about the deceased.
Posthumously, Soldier Sergey Sergeyovich Burenok was awarded the Order of Courage III degree.
The National Guard soldier was buried in his native village.
At home, Sergey was awaited by loving parents, younger sisters, grandmother, beloved girlfriend, and other relatives.