Ruslan M. Poliushkevych (Senia)

Chief Sergeant Ruslan Polyushkevych (call sign Senya) was killed in action on May 6, 2022, during the liberation of settlements in the Kharkiv region. The fighter received a fatal mine-explosive injury. He would have turned 28 in June. Ruslan was born in the village of Poninka in the Khmelnytskyi region. After completing his education, he decided to dedicate his life to the army and signed a contract with the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU). Since 2014, he participated in the Russian-Ukrainian war. He fought in the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO) as part of the 54th Separate Reconnaissance Battalion. He was a sniper-scout. He participated in battles for Mariupol, Ilovaisk, Debaltseve, Savur-Mohyla, Shyrokyne, Lutuhyne, Hranitne, Popasna. During the execution of combat missions, he was repeatedly wounded but returned to service after treatment, continuing to defend Ukraine. In 2017, he successfully completed the qualification course of the Special Operations Forces of the AFU (Q-course) and joined the ranks of the instructor-teacher staff. As an instructor for future special forces, Ruslan, as part of a combat instructor group, carried out tasks in the enemy's rear, some of which allowed for the liberation of settlements. During his service, he was repeatedly awarded by the command. With the start of the full-scale invasion, Ruslan continued to fight for Ukraine on the most intense frontlines. He defended Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Donetsk regions. "Ruslan is a loving husband, a wonderful son, the best brother, a true warrior, a friend and comrade, an example of unbreakable and strong spirit, a man of his word. I am proud of my husband, his dedication and patriotism. Eternal memory and respect to all who gave their lives for Ukraine!" wrote the fallen's wife, Karina. Ruslan was buried in his native village. He is survived by his wife, relatives, and friends. Posthumously, the warrior was awarded the Order "For Courage" III degree.