Ivan M. Zaits (Zaika)

Senior Lieutenant Ivan Zayets was killed on May 2, 2022, during a reconnaissance mission in the Izium forest in the Kharkiv region. The officer was only 23 years old. Ivan was born in the village of Horbovo in the Chernivtsi region. He stu at a local school and later chose a military path for himself. He graduated from the Odessa Military Academy and served under contract in the Armed Forces of Ukraine after graduation. Among his comrades, he was given the call sign "Zayka." At the time of the full-scale invasion, Ivan was the commander of a company in the 132nd separate airborne assault battalion of the Airborne Assault Troops of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. "Zayets was our commander. A professional specialist, but a bit tough," noted his comrade Ivan. "In this difficult time, we express our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones. We share your pain and bow our heads in deep sorrow. May the care of the Almighty ease the bitterness of losing your dearest person, and may words of support help you bear your family grief. A low bow to the family who raised a true hero and patriot of their homeland! We share your grief, mourn with you, and support you in this time of sorrow. Eternal and bright memory to the defender of Ukraine!" stated the administration of the hospital where the fallen defender's mother works. The officer was buried in his native village of Horbovo in the Chernivtsi region. Ivan is survived by his parents and brother. He did not have time to start his own family.