Soldier Volodymyr Vashchenko, call sign “Puma,” was killed on September 17, 2022, near the village of Milove. While carrying out a combat mission, a group of Ukrainian soldiers was caught in an enemy ambush. During the battle, the serviceman sustained fatal gunshot wounds. Two months earlier, on July 22, he had turned 28.
Volodymyr was born in the city of Mariupol. He graduated from the Mariupol College of the Pryazovskyi State Technical University. According to his loved ones, his entrepreneurial spirit, active involvement in public life, and sincerity in personal relationships made him a favorite in every company he joined. In civilian life, he was engaged in business and opened a fast-food restaurant in Kyiv.
During Russia’s full-scale invasion, Volodymyr defended his country in the ranks of the 101st Separate Territorial Defense Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He served as a rifleman in the rifle company of the 68th Battalion.
“There was no one like Vova. He was a truly special person. He had already achieved so much in life and still had so much ahead of him. He always moved forward. The best husband, the best father to his two little sons. Brave, intelligent, fair, kind, cheerful — the soul of every company. He courageously defended his country and protected his family. Even now, it still feels like he is alive and that I will see him again, as if he is somewhere nearby. Our Hero,” said the wife of the fallen soldier, Yevheniia Ardalianova.
“You were one of the first people in the military who began breaking my stereotypes. You were one of the first with whom a true friendship formed. You were someone with whom everything felt easy and natural. Always ready to go, you took on every mission, and we learned courage from you. I don’t have many photos with you, but all my memories are bright and positive. That is how I will keep you in my heart forever. Forever in formation! Honor!” wrote his fellow serviceman Denys Man.
The defender was buried in the settlement of Blyzniuky.
Volodymyr is survived by his wife, two sons, relatives, friends, and brothers-in-arms.
At 9:00 a.m., a nationwide minute of silence is observed. The Donetsk Regional Military Administration and the Memorial platform honor the fallen defenders from Donetsk region.