Vitalii was born on 21 July 1977 and lived all his life in the town of Ternivka in Dnipro region. He chose the path of his grandfather, who was like a father to him, and became a miner. He has over 20 years of underground experience. Since 2017, he has been working as a shearer at the installation and dismantling section of Zakhidno-Donbaska underground mine of DTEK Ternivske Mine Office.
In May 2023, Vitalii went to defend his homeland and joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine. A few months later, during a severe combat in Kupiansk sector, he was seriously wounded and taken prisoner.
20 months seemed like an eternity. Abuse, pain, uncertainty. At first, he was held in Bielhorod region, then transferred to Kostroma region.
'It's hard to remember how we were abused by people who had never seen war in their eyes... Words cannot describe what we went through,' shares Vitalii.
Despite everything, he did not lose hope. He believed in his return, and it happened!
"It is a real happiness to be back in Ukraine! Even the air is different here, the sky is native. People greeted us with tears in their eyes. It's so touching... It's worth fighting for such people, for such a homeland, and even giving your life if necessary," says Vitalii.
He is currently undergoing rehabilitation in Lviv region. His severe injury and contusion are still evident. However, the man does not complain - on the contrary, he is happy with every new day, every call from his family, every breath of Ukrainian air.
Despite his long-service pension, he dreams of returning to the mine - to the work of his life.
We sincerely congratulate Vitalii on his return home! We thank him for his courage, resilience and love for Ukraine.
Our hats off to you, our Defenders!