Lieutenant Dmytro Popchenko, call sign “Ember,” was killed on June 6, 2023, near Opytne in the Avdiivka sector.
While carrying out a mission under mortar fire, he rushed to rescue a wounded comrade and sustained fatal injuries. He was 25 forever.
He was born and lived in Oleksandrivka, Kramatorsk district. In 2020, he graduated from the Donbas State Engineering Academy and the Military Training Department of Sumy State University, where he received the rank of lieutenant. Since childhood, he was fond of sports (football, volleyball, tennis) and loved computer games.
From October 2022 he served in military unit A4862; in April 2023, he joined the 425th Assault Battalion “Skelia” as an officer-psychologist. He chose his call sign from Dota 2.
“Thank God I had him, even if for such a short time. I am still waiting for him,” — his mother, Nataliya.
“Sincere, genuine, a patriot. We will not forget and will not forgive,” — his friends.
He was laid to rest in Oleksandrivka. He is survived by his father Volodymyr, mother Nataliya, elder sister Yuliya, relatives, and brothers-in-arms.
At 9:00 a.m. — a nationwide moment of silence. Donetsk Regional Military Administration and the Heroes Memorial platform honor the fallen defenders from Donetsk region.