Stanislav V. Kovshar (Bard)

Soldier Stanislav Kovshar (call sign Bard) was killed on April 15, 2022, during the crossing to the Azovstal plant in Mariupol, Donetsk region. He was in the last group covering the retreat of his comrades. He was 25 years old. Stanislav was born in Kyiv. He stu at Gymnasium No. 109 named after T. G. Shevchenko. He graduated from the Faculty of Sociology at Kyiv National University. In his third year, he got a job at a company producing and selling special clothing for the military, fishermen, and hunters called "PROF1GROUP." He worked with the website. He was passionate about skiing, cycling, kayaking, and mountaineering. He played the guitar virtuously. In 2019, he completed medical courses with the Red Cross. The following year, he signed a contract with the Azov regiment. He was a paramedic in the company. "Stas was not just my son, but my closest friend. We were both interested in history, visited museums, and historical sites together. At one point, I thought that there were many free, educated, and talented people like him in Ukraine. They would truly bring a new generation, free from the 'Soviet mindset.' Stas was very distressed that 'the guys went to fight, and I am not repaying my debt to the Motherland.' He began to search for whom he could join. By that time, his friends were already serving in Azov. Due to his tall stature, my son had six disqualifications. The military medical commission in Mariupol stated that he was unfit for service. But Stas 'lost' that conclusion, went to another doctor, and became 'fit.' The last time we spoke on the phone was when there was still communication in Mariupol. Stas told me, 'We need to finally cut down this hydra that has tormented our Ukraine for many centuries. And the price does not matter.' At that moment, I understood that he was ready for anything. The last time we texted was on the night of April 10. He said that at that time he had provided assistance to six wounded comrades. He did not admit that he himself had been injured. Friends recall that even in critical moments, Stas was collected and calm, a reliable friend with whom one could go on a reconnaissance mission without hesitation. Stas was our only child. I love him very much and believed that my love would save him, but death does not take this into account..." said his mother, Tetiana Konnorova. Stanislav is survived by his parents and beloved girlfriend. Posthumously, the defender was awarded the Order of Courage, III class.