Valerii V. Ponomarenko (Aptekar, Apotekarii)

Sergeant Valerii Ponomarenko (call sign Apothecary, Pharmacist) was killed on May 7, 2023, during the battle for the city of Bakhmut in the Donetsk region. He sustained fatal injuries during enemy artillery shelling. The warrior was 33 years old. Valerii was born in the city of Bar, Vinnytsia region, but lived his entire life in the city of Ukrainka, Kyiv region. He graduated from the O.O. Bohomolets National Medical University, where he mastered the profession of a pharmacist-dispenser. He then confirmed his qualifications at the Institute of Postgraduate Education. In civilian life, in his hometown, he was the best pharmacist, to whom people turned for help. He worked at the "Vitamin" pharmacy. He loved to spend his free time with his family and friends, and he also adored playing computer games. On February 25, 2022, the man joined the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He served in the 114th separate brigade of the territorial defense. He was a senior combat medic in the rifle company of the 135th battalion. "My beloved husband, I love you forever. You are the brightest and best father, son, and husband. A devoted Hero of the Motherland. It's empty without you in our family. We dreamed of a daughter together, but thank you for our two sons. They are my two wings that keep me from falling. Relatives, friends, and residents of the city - everyone misses your light and kindness. Your knowledge, kindness, and honesty were known throughout the city, as you always sincerely helped people," wrote his wife Olha. The military was buried in the Alley of Glory cemetery in Ukrainka. Valerii is survived by his parents, wife, two sons, and grandmother.