Yakiv V. Starostin (Staryi)

Main Sergeant Yakov Starostin (call sign Staryk) was killed on February 27, 2023, in battle with the occupiers in the area of the village of Dubovo-Vasylivka in the Donetsk region. The 28-year-old warrior's life was cut short by a bullet from an enemy sniper. Yakov was born in the village of Kachkarivka, Kherson region. After finishing school, he acquired several civilian professions. He then decided to connect his life with the army. He served under contract in the 137th separate marine battalion, participated in the ATO. Then he entered the Odesa Military Academy. However, after a few years, he was discharged for family reasons. In his free time, he loved to cook. During the full-scale Russian invasion, Yakov was working in Poland. However, he returned to Ukraine and the ranks of the Armed Forces as early as February 25. He served in the 77th separate airmobile brigade. He was a platoon commander. He took part in battles for the Kyiv, Mykolaiv and Kherson regions. "Yakov Starostin was cheerful, cheerful, friendly and always smiling, his positivity encouraged everyone around him. This is how we must remember our Hero, who was faithful to the oath until his last breath, who gave his life for the integrity and independence of Ukraine," the Kherson community wrote about the hero. The fighter was buried in his native village. Yakov is survived by his parents, brothers, sisters, friends and girlfriend.