September 17, 2022
Soldier Volodymyr Vashchenko, call sign Puma, died on September 17, 2022, near the village of Milove in Kharkiv region while performing a combat mission. A group of Ukrainian soldiers fell into an enemy ambush. In that battle, the soldier received fatal gunshot wounds. Two months before this, on July 22, he turned 28.
Volodymyr Yevhenovych was born in the city of Mariupol, Donetsk region. He received his education at the Mariupol College of the Pryazovskyi State Technical University. According to his close ones, his entrepreneurship and activity in public life, sincerity in personal relationships made him the favorite of any company he joined. In civilian life, he was engaged in entrepreneurial activities – he opened a fast-food restaurant in Kyiv.
During the full-scale Russian invasion, he fought for his country in the ranks of the 101st Separate Brigade of Territorial Defense of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He was a rifleman in the rifle company of the 68th battalion.
“There was no one like Vova. He was a special person. In life, he achieved a lot and had yet to achieve more. He always moved forward. The best husband, the best father to his two little sons. Brave, intelligent, fair, kind, cheerful, the life of the party. He bravely defended his country, protected his family. And it still seems like he’s alive, and I’ll see him, as if he’s nearby. Our Hero,” – said the wife of the fallen soldier, Yevheniia Ardal’yanova.
“You were one of the first who started breaking my stereotypes in the army, you were one of the first whom I formed a friendship with, you were the one with whom everything was simple and easy. Easygoing, you approached every task, and we learned from your courage. I don’t have so many photos with you, but all the memories are bright and positive. This is how I will keep you in my heart forever! Forever in formation! Honor!” – wrote his comrade Denis Man.
The defender was buried in the village of Blyzniuky in Kharkiv region.
Volodymyr is survived by his wife, two sons, other relatives, friends, and comrades.