Participant in the regional contest “Young Person of the Year – 2026” “Called to Save” category Serhiy Yeshchenko
Serhiy Yeshchenko has dedicated over 14 years to serving in the State Emergency Service of Ukraine. A native of Bakhmut, he dreamed of becoming a rescuer since childhood, and today he holds the position of deputy head of the regional emergency management center of the Main Directorate of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine in Donetsk Oblast.
From the very first days of the full-scale invasion, Serhiy worked in Bakhmut, clearing the aftermath of enemy shelling, rescuing people from under the rubble, extinguishing fires, evacuating civilians, and delivering humanitarian aid. He repeatedly took part in the most challenging rescue operations in Bakhmut, Pokrovsk, Novohrodivka, and other cities in the Donetsk region, risking his own life to save others.
For his courage and dedication to duty, he has been awarded the Presidential Decorations of Ukraine “For the Defense of Ukraine” and “For Participation in the Anti-Terrorist Operation,” the badges “For Bravery in Service” and “For Bravery in an Emergency,” as well as a number of state and departmental awards.
Through his daily work, Serhiy Yeshchenko proves that the profession of a rescuer is a calling rooted in courage, professionalism, responsibility, and boundless dedication to people. His life serves as a model of resilience, self-sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of modern Donetsk Oblast.