Bohdan Ya. Khmeliuk (Taison)

Lieutenant Bohdan Khmeliuk (call sign Tyson) was killed on July 8, 2023, while carrying out a combat mission near the settlement of Yahidne in the Donetsk region. That day, the enemy shelled Ukrainian soldiers with tanks and artillery. The officer was forever 22 years old. Bohdan was born in the city of Haivoron, Kirovohrad region. In 2016, he graduated from Haivoron Lyceum No. 1. Then he studied for a year at the Haivoron Polytechnic Professional College. In 2019, he became a graduate of the Odesa Lyceum with enhanced military and physical training. That same year, he entered the Kyiv Institute of the National Guard of Ukraine, which he graduated from in March 2023. After graduation, he was sent to serve in the 4th Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine. There, he took the position of a grenade launcher platoon commander. Two weeks later, he went to defend the city of Bakhmut. The boy was active and adored sports. Bohdan was a candidate for the title of Master of Sports of Ukraine in powerlifting. In October 2022, he represented the National Guard of Ukraine in strongman competitions. "Sensitive, courageous, always supportive and moving forward, purposeful, a reliable support and assistance," said the deceased's sister Liudmyla. "He was sociable, polite, and lively. Friends and acquaintances say he was always ready to help, he was someone they wanted to emulate not only in sports but also in work. Indifferent to the misfortune and injustice of others, a true fighter. Bohdan gave his life to save our country and each of us. He will forever remain in the memory of those who knew him, a courageous son of the Ukrainian people, a brave warrior, a good and faithful friend, a person with a big heart, full of strength and energy," the Haivoron City Council noted. The officer was buried in his hometown. At home, Bohdan was awaited by his parents, sister, relatives, and friends.