31-year-old Illia Korniienko was killed on March 30, 2022, in Kharkiv, where he had traveled for personal matters and came under enemy shelling.
Illia was born and lived in the village of Bylbasivka. He studied at the Sloviansk Agrarian College, earning a degree as a machinery operator. After completing his compulsory military service in 2010–2011, he worked in various professions. In recent years, he was employed by the railway track service (PCH-Sloviansk) as a second-class track fitter.
In 2015, he was mobilized and took part in the Anti-Terrorist Operation/Joint Forces Operation (ATO/JFO). He received several awards: the 1st Class Medal “For Exemplary Service in the Internal Troops of the Ministry of Internal Affairs,” the Commander of the Joint Forces’ distinction “Cossack Cross” 3rd Class, the Presidential Award “For Participation in the Anti-Terrorist Operation,” and the ATO Participant Badge. He also received a letter of gratitude from the NGO “Donetsk Regional Organization of Airborne Troops Veterans ‘Union of Paratroopers.’” He completed his service in 2021 with the rank of senior soldier.
His family remembers him as a kind and compassionate person. Illia had many friends and was always ready to help others. His favorite pastime was fishing.
Illia Korniienko was laid to rest in his hometown.
He is survived by his wife and two children.
At 9:00 a.m. — a nationwide moment of silence. The Donetsk Regional Military Administration and the Heroes Memorial platform honor the residents of Donetsk region killed by Russian forces.