Mykola I. Melnyk (Vakula)

48-year-old senior sergeant Mykola Melnyk (call sign Vakula) died on December 15, 2023 near the village of Raihorodka in the Luhansk region. While carrying out a combat mission, he sustained fatal injuries during an enemy mortar attack. Mykola was born in the village of Zhytnivka, Volyn region. He received secondary education. He worked in the management of drainage systems. He dedicated his free time to his family. He loved to engage in household chores. In the winter of 2023, the man joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He served in the 68th separate Yager brigade named after Oleksa Dovbush. He responsibly carried out all combat missions and bravely went into battle, as he strived for a faster victory and return home. "He bravely fulfilled his duty as a citizen of Ukraine. Until his last breath, he was faithful to his comrades-in-arms and the state. Mykola gave the most precious thing he had - his life, leaving behind a wife and three children who were waiting for the return of their husband and father, who had many plans and unfulfilled dreams," wrote the deceased's daughter Oksana Melnyk. "My dad gave his life so that we could sleep under a peaceful sky," added daughter Anastasia Melnyk. The defender was buried in his native village. At home, Mykola was awaited by his wife and three children.