Vitalii V. Filipov (Paton)

47-year-old Sergeant Vitaliy Filipov (call sign Paton) was killed on September 6, 2022, during the liberation of Kharkiv region from the occupiers. Near the town of Balakliya, the soldier sustained fatal injuries as a result of enemy shelling. Vitaliy was born in the village of Oleksandrivka in the Kirovohrad region. He obtained a welding profession at a vocational technical school. He was married and lived with his family in Kyiv. He worked hard to provide for his family. Outside of work, he enjoyed fishing and spending time with his children. On the first day of the full-scale war, he went to the enlistment office to defend his country and loved ones. Later, he fought as part of the 25th Separate Airborne Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He participated in battles for Sievierodonetsk in the Luhansk region and then went to Kharkiv region. “Dad voluntarily took up arms. He waited a few days at the enlistment office, having no combat experience, and received a weapon voucher. He adapted to this duty so quickly, as if he had been waiting for it all his life; that deserves respect. He defended with enthusiasm, not afraid of death. He was a true comrade, a real warrior who fought until the end. And in these six months of his war, he achieved much more,” said the daughter of the fallen, Valentyna. “They say time heals... You died, and I died with you… They buried you, and they forgot me... And I somehow live between work and home, between children and relatives... I somehow live... Is it hard? No! It's unbearable... You were my multiplier, I multiplied myself by you, and everything worked out for us. But now I am alone... and your pillow! Every day is filled with you. I don't want to say goodbye forever, but I have to let you go... into the light... piece by piece, millimeter by millimeter, tear by tear... I lost the battle in life! I lost you! Rest in peace, and I will be nearby as long as my heart beats,” wrote his wife, Olga. The paratrooper was buried at the Lisove Cemetery in Kyiv. At home, Vitaliy was awaited by his wife, daughter, son, and beloved dog, Jessie.