Denys R. Zaderei (Didzhei)

Lieutenant Denis Zaderei (call sign DJ) was killed on June 5, 2023 near the settlement of Novodonets'ke in the Donetsk region. While carrying out a combat mission, he received fatal injuries during enemy mortar shelling. The warrior was only 21 years old. Denis was from the village of Pripyat in the Volyn region. He lived in Odesa. He was orphaned at a young age and was raised in a foster family, who became his own. He had dreamed of a military career since childhood. After graduating from school, he entered the Odesa Naval Lyceum. He later studied at the Military Academy in Odesa, specializing in Marine Infantry. In 2022, Denis interrupted his studies and, as a true soldier and patriot, went to defend his homeland on the hottest fronts of the war. Later, he returned and completed his studies. Despite a serious leg injury and a long recovery, on February 21, 2023, Denis received his long-awaited lieutenant's rank. On the same day, he was appointed commander of an assault platoon and sent to Poland, where he and his comrades-in-arms honed their skills. Returning to Ukraine, the officer diligently carried out all his tasks, was very responsible and intelligent, for which he was promoted to company commander in April. Later, his newly formed 505th separate marine battalion of the 37th Separate Marine Brigade went to defend the Donetsk direction. "There is a lot I want to say, but I will say one thing: there is no one like him... There are no people like him. Despite his difficult fate, he still remained that bright and kind boy who was a 'balm' for his parents' souls. And for me, he became the meaning of life... Such love as he gave can only be given by angels. Everyone who remembers him says they have never met people like Denis in their lives," said the officer's beloved girlfriend. The young warrior was buried in his native village. Denis is survived by his foster parents, brother, two sisters, and his girlfriend.