Taras V. Ivanochko (Shevchenko)

42-year-old fighter Taras Ivanochko (call sign Shevchenko) was killed on October 7, 2022, while performing a combat mission in the area of the village of Spirne in Donetsk region. The vehicle of the Ukrainian defenders hit an enemy mine. Taras was born in the city of Ivano-Frankivsk. He spent his childhood and youth in the town of Nadvirna in Ivano-Frankivsk region. He graduated from the local secondary school No. 3 and Nadvirna College, where he earned a degree as a technician-mechanic. He then stu at the Ukrainian State Forestry Technical University, obtaining the qualification of engineer-mechanic. On the second day of the full-scale Russian invasion, February 25, 2022, Taras joined the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He served in the 10th Separate Mountain Assault Brigade as a shooter-paramedic. Together with his comrades, he fought in the hottest directions of the front. During his service, he was awarded the badge of the 10th Mountain Assault Brigade for successfully completing combat missions. "It was not scary to go into battle with him, as he would always cover, protect, and, risking his own life, save his comrades," noted his fellow soldiers. "In life, Taras was calm and reserved, but intelligent and sensible, always ready to help. He had golden hands; whatever he took on, he succeeded. I really miss him with the children. But he is always with us, in our thoughts and hearts. He was the best, there is no one like him anymore. Genuine, kind, sincere, loving, attentive," said his wife Natalia. "Taras Ivanochko was one of the best shooters. Balanced and sensible, responsible and cautious, he was an example. He was a good father and friend, who would always help, advise, and support. He is a person with a capital letter. I had the opportunity to communicate with the fighter within the walls of the city council; he was a modest and simple person... It's just hard to believe..." wrote the mayor of Nadvirna, Zinoviy Andriyovych. The defender was buried at the Alley of Glory in Nadvirna Cemetery. Taras is survived by his wife, two daughters, mother, sister, and grandmothers.