It has been two years since the death of Ukrainian defender Andrii Khomych, who gave his life for the freedom and independence of the state while carrying out a combat mission near Novodanylivka in Zaporizhzhia region.
Andrii Valentynovych Khomych was born in the village of Kukly in Volyn. Later, he moved with his parents to the village of Velyka Yablunka, where he spent his childhood and teenage years. After qualifying as a carpenter-builder, he worked in his profession both in Ukraine and abroad.
In January 2015 he voluntarily joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine and took part in the anti-terrorist operation in the east of the country. Later he continued his service under contract in the 24th Separate Mechanised Brigade named after King Danylo.
At the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Andrii was in Poland, but he returned to Ukraine and in April 2022 rejoined the ranks. He served in the 65th Separate Mechanised Brigade, was a senior gunner, and helped evacuate the wounded and the fallen. His comrades-in-arms gave him the callsign “Zvier” for his courage and resilience. Despite the constant danger, the soldier maintained the fighting spirit of his comrades and remained cheerful.
On 29 October 2024, Andrii Khomych was killed while carrying out a combat mission in the settlement of Novodanylivka in Zaporizhzhia region. On 4 November his body was brought back to his home, and on 5 November the warrior was buried with military honours in the village of Velyka Yablunka.
For his personal bravery and selfless service to the Ukrainian people, Andrii Khomych was posthumously awarded the Order “For Courage” III Class. He was also given the honorary title “Hero of the Velyki Mosty Territorial Community”.
Relatives and comrades recall that he could have continued his peaceful life, worked in his profession and raised his daughters, but he consciously chose to defend Ukraine and did not stand aside when the enemy came to his native land.
Everlasting memory to Andrii Khomych. His courage, patriotism and sacrifice remain an example for his contemporaries and for generations to come.