Artem Ya. Romanenko (Sokol)

Sailor Artem Romanenko (call sign Sokol) was killed on June 18, 2023, in the Donetsk direction. The soldier sustained a fatal explosive injury during assault operations in the settlement of Novodonetskoye. He was 24 years old. Artem was born in the village of Kizomys, Kherson region. In 2017, he graduated from the Kherson Professional Shipbuilding Lyceum and obtained the specialty of metal ship hull assembler and manual electric welder. In civilian life, he worked as a welder-shipbuilder at a factory in Kherson. In his free time, he repaired gadgets, helped his father repair cars, and went fishing. He also collected old banknotes and coins. In early February 2023, he voluntarily joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine. After training, he was stationed in the Donetsk direction as part of the 37th Separate Marine Brigade. He held the position of machine section commander (grenadier). "My son was devoted to our country, he was fair, sensitive, kind, and always pursued his goal. He was brave, never abandoned his neighbor in trouble. He was a true patriot of our country and defended its independence until his last breath," said his father, Yanush Romanenko. "My brave, courageous, and best brother. Very kind and sincere, he always helped and supported everyone," added his older sister, Tetyana Romanenko. The warrior was buried in his native village. Artem is survived by his parents, two sisters, and nieces.