Kyrylo V. Pikula (Pika)

The 22-year-old senior soldier Kyrylo Pykula (call sign Pika) was killed in action on March 29, 2022, during the performance of a combat mission near the village of Dolyna in Donetsk region. That day, the reconnaissance group came under tank fire, the warrior received injuries incompatible with life. Kyrylo was born in the city of Kherson. After graduating from high school, he stu at the Department of Directing and Acting of the Kyiv Municipal Academy of Variety and Circus Arts. In March 2020, he left the student ranks and signed a contract to serve in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The warrior met the full-scale war on the frontline as part of the 81st Separate Airmobile Brigade. He held the position of a scout-machine gunner. "Kyrylo was sometimes impulsive but had a big and kind heart that he opened only to those closest to him. He was the best son, guy, friend, brother, comrade. A person who left many warm memories in many hearts," shared his beloved girlfriend Anna Malyuk. "Kyrylo was a friendly, sincere person! He could sacrifice himself without hesitation for others! All acquaintances, friends, family greatly respect and love Kyrylo! For his courage, dedication, and kind heart! Kyrylo was a patriot of his country! He will forever remain in our hearts!" shared the warrior's mother, Anastasiya. The defender was buried in the village of Orzhytsia in Poltava region. Kyrylo is survived by his mother and brother. Senior soldier Kyrylo Pykula was posthumously awarded the Order "For Courage" III degree. On October 1, 2024, a memorial plaque was installed on the facade of the school in the village of Orzhytsia in honor of the defender.