Mykhailo I. Zhakun (Zhak)

Soldier Mykhailo Zhakun (call sign Zhak) was killed on August 7, 2022, defending the city of Soledar in Donetsk region from the occupiers. On August 29, the defender would have turned 44 years old. Mykhailo was born in the village of Kolky, Rivne region. He received the profession of plasterer-stucco artist at the Dubrovitsky Professional and Technical School. He worked in construction and was a good specialist. He loved to play football and adored fishing. He devoted his free time to his family and children. In 2014-2015, as part of the 54th separate reconnaissance battalion, he took part in the ATO. With the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion, the man voluntarily replenished the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine to defend his home and loved ones from the occupiers. He served in the 14th separate mechanized brigade named after Prince Roman the Great. He went through fierce battles, was a brave and courageous warrior. "Misha was a faithful friend and reliable comrade, a loving husband, a good father, a loving son," his wife Lyudmila said. The serviceman was buried in his native village. At home, the defender was waited for by his parents, wife, three sons, other relatives and friends. Posthumously, the warrior was awarded the Order "For Courage" III degree.