Pavlo Panchokha, a participant in the regional “Young Person of the Year – 2026” competition in the “Heart of Victory” category
Pavlo Panchokha chose the path of a soldier while still a student at Chernihiv University. After leaving college, he enlisted for active duty in the National Guard of Ukraine in 2020. Within just a few months, he signed a contract, completed squad leader training, and found himself on the front lines of a major war.
As a master sergeant in the operational battalion of the 18th Sloviansk Brigade, he fought on the fiercest sections of the front line in Donetsk Oblast. In particular, as part of an infantry unit, Pavlo held the defense for an extended period in the town of Chasiv Yar, where he repelled enemy assaults and effectively carried out combat missions.
During one of the clashes, enemy UAVs bombarded the Ukrainian defenders’ position with incendiary munitions. A fire broke out. Pavlo suffered thermal burns to his head, face, eyes, arms, and legs—covering a total of about 10% of his body surface area. Despite his severe injuries and pain, he managed to make his way out of the affected area on his own.
His treatment and rehabilitation lasted nearly a year. Once recovered, “PANCH” immediately returned to his brigade. He is currently carrying out missions again on the front lines near Yampil.
For his resilience and professionalism, the soldier was awarded the Order “For Courage,” Third Class. Despite his extensive combat experience and awards, Pavlo remains down-to-earth and open in his interactions, and his comrades value him for his level-headedness and willingness to lend a helping hand in a critical moment.