Valentyn O. Novykov

Sergeant Major Valentyn Novykov (call sign Fil) died on February 9, 2023, while repelling an enemy assault in the area of the village of Klishchiyivka in the Donetsk region. The defender was 29 years old. Valentin was born in the village of Sloboda-Sholomkivska, Zhytomyr region. He completed 9 grades at the Sholomkivsky Lyceum. Then he obtained the profession of a tractor-machine operator in agricultural production at the Ovruch Vocational Lyceum. He dedicated many years to military service in the border troops and the Armed Forces of Ukraine. In 2014, he participated in the ATO. Before the invasion, he worked in the Czech Republic. He loved to spend his free time with his loved ones. He was a well-rounded person. He helped everyone and did everything he was asked. During the full-scale war, the man returned to the army and went back to the front. He served in the 5th separate assault brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He held the position of commander of a combat vehicle - commander of an assault squad. He received the awards "Veteran of War" and "Iron Cross". "He was a bright and kind person who would never leave anyone in trouble, he would always help. He was honest and fair, he dedicated his whole life to the Ukrainian troops. Even when he went to this war, Valentin said: 'I won't sit here while my comrades from 2014 are there'." He was extremely positive and sincere," said the deceased's niece, Ivanna Andriychuk. "You will forever be in our hearts, the memory of you will live forever, son," added the mother of the fallen Natalia Vasylivna. Valentin was buried in the village of Sholomky, Zhytomyr region. At home, the warrior was awaited by his mother, relatives and friends. He was posthumously awarded the title of "Honorary Citizen of the City of Ovruch".