Mykhailo M. Kostiuchok (Molfar)

40-year-old defender Mykhailo Kostiuchok (call sign Molfar) was killed on June 12, 2022, in the area of the village of Vidrodzhennia in Donetsk region. While performing a combat mission, he came under enemy artillery fire. The injuries were fatal. Mykhailo was born in the village of Berezhky, Rivne region, in a large family. He finished school, then received a degree in master of rural construction at the Dubrovitsky vocational school. He served in the airborne troops. After that, he dreamed of a military career, but started working as a builder, and later as a rescuer. In general, he had a knack for repair and construction work, could fix anything. In 2015, the man stood up to defend the Motherland. He took part in the ATO as part of the 80th separate airborne assault brigade. He fought in Luhansk region. After a year of service, he returned to civilian life and work in construction. However, at the end of December 2021, Mykhailo signed a contract with the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He served in the 14th separate mechanized brigade named after Prince Roman the Great. During the full-scale Russian invasion, he held the position of senior driver of the reconnaissance department of the reconnaissance platoon. He took part in battles for Kyiv, Izium, Sievierodonetsk, Soledar, and Bakhmut. "He was a very bright, sensitive, and kind person in my life. He was always cheerful and never lost his spirit. Every time I remember him, I see his bright smile, which never left his face. He was always ready to help and give his last. I loved him boundlessly and love him, he will forever remain in my heart as that naive and sincere Mikhay," said the deceased's niece, Ilona Chmunovych. The soldier was buried in his native village. Mykhailo's father, three sisters, and nephews remained. Posthumously, soldier Mykhailo Kostiuchok was awarded the Order "For Courage" of the III degree.