Nazar P. Lavrenko

Soldier Nazar Lavrenenko (call sign Skipper) died on October 2, 2024 in a battle with the occupiers in the Kupiansk direction. He was killed by enemy artillery fire. The defender was 21 years old. Nazar was born in the city of Smila, Cherkasy region. He studied at the Bohdan Khmelnytsky National University of Cherkasy, majoring in Physical Education. From a young age, he was engaged in gymnastics and MMA, winning first places in Ukraine and abroad. In his free time, he loved fishing. On November 17, 2021, he was drafted for military service. In July 2022, he signed a contract with the National Guard of Ukraine and became a machine gunner in military unit 3066. In March 2023, he was transferred to the reconnaissance of the 1st Presidential Brigade of the Operational Designation "Bureviy". He held the position of external pilot (operator) of unmanned aerial vehicles. For his bravery and courage, Nazar Lavrenenko was awarded the medals "For the Defense of the Homeland", "For Valor", and "For Steadfastness and Indomitability". "I have never met such bright and strong people as him. What he went through in his years is beyond words... The best person I knew, who had crazy plans for the future," said his girlfriend Kateryna. "Brother, we miss you so much. You were brave, cheerful, the soul of the company. I could always rely on you," wrote his comrade Tetch. "Not for power, glory or money, they are remembered on the banks of the Cheremosh - they did not hide, they remained, they knew what they were fighting for. For their native land, the tears of maidens, they stood until the end against the night. They remained forever young, like forest brothers," wrote his comrade Trak. "Nazarchyk, you are our bright sun, which we now miss so much. We planned to do so much together, but one day cut off your whole life. We miss you, brother, we always remember you," added his comrade Lysyi. "He will forever remain in our hearts and memory as a brave, courageous, bold, kind and valiant comrade, warrior and friend," noted his comrade Tatar. "A great man with a big and brave heart! I was honored to be by Nazar's side all the time! One of the biggest losses!" said his comrade Dzhyn. Nazar was buried in his native Smila. He is survived by his parents, older brother and sister, and his girlfriend.