Oleksandr S. Belchenko (Bielia)

Soldier Oleksandr Belchenko (call sign Belya) was killed in Mariupol on March 25, 2022, during street battles for the city. While carrying out a combat mission, the warrior came under fire from a Grad and sustained serious injuries. The defender was forever 25 years old. Oleksandr was born and raised in the village of Novozlatopil in the Zaporizhzhia region. After graduating from 11th grade at Malynivka Secondary School I-III degrees, he enlisted for mandatory service in the 15th Operational Brigade named after Hero of Ukraine Lieutenant Bohdan Zavada, and later signed a contract. He later took on the position of a BTR gunner. In his free time, he studied military affairs, adored cars, and engaged in numismatics. After completing his contract, he wanted to work in the State Emergency Service, but his dream never came true. With the onset of the full-scale invasion, he returned to defend Ukraine. He fought in Mariupol and held the position of a gunner. "My brother was very diligent in his studies, always demanding of himself, showed interest in the socio-political life of the country, and constantly aspired for more. He was the best, the most sincere, and extraordinarily kind. He was respected by commanders, comrades, and friends. He loved life, his family, friends, and work very much. He was someone who would never leave you in trouble and would give everything to help others. For us, he will always live on... Forever in the ranks," wrote his sister Yulia. The warrior was buried in Mariupol. Oleksandr is survived by his mother, sister, and brother. Posthumously, the defender was awarded the Order of Courage, 2nd class.