Ukrainian Paratrooper Serhii Ponomarchuk Killed in Combat Near Russia’s Kursk Region
Ukrainian paratrooper Serhii Ponomarchuk was killed in action near Russia’s Kursk region while defending Ukraine. He was posthumously awarded the Order of Courage and laid to rest in his hometown. His legacy is remembered with honor and pride
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Ukrainian Paratrooper Serhii Ponomarchuk Killed in Combat Near Russia’s Kursk Region
Honored for Bravery, Remembered as a Hero by Family and Friends
YEREL GÜNDEM / UKRAINE
Serhii Ponomarchuk, a 44-year-old Ukrainian paratrooper known by his call sign “Buster,” was killed in action on November 14, 2024, during a combat mission near the village of Cherkaske Porychne in the Sudzha district of Russia’s Kursk region. His death adds to the growing list of Ukrainian warriors who gave their lives in defense of their homeland amid Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Born in the city of Kherson, Ponomarchuk grew up in the village of Novovorontsovka, where he graduated from Secondary School No. 1. He pursued vocational training at the Havrylivka Professional Technical School No. 26 from 1995 to 1996, earning dual qualifications as a third-class plasterer and tailor of men’s and women’s light garments. After completing his mandatory military service in 1999, he returned to civilian life and worked in his hometown as a baker, parking attendant, and construction worker.
Voluntarily Returned to Defend Ukraine
In August 2024, as the war intensified, Ponomarchuk answered the call to serve and joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He was assigned to the elite 80th Separate Air Assault Brigade, where he held the position of senior rifleman. His dedication to duty and fearless commitment quickly earned him the admiration of his comrades.
Known for his calm demeanor and warm personality, Ponomarchuk brought humor and comfort to those around him. “Serhii was kind, welcoming, always ready to support others and bring a smile to our faces. People loved him and looked forward to being with him,” shared Anna, the wife of Serhii’s brother.
His family described him as their “guardian angel,” someone who is “always near, always watching over us.”
Posthumous Recognition and Burial in His Hometown
For his bravery and sacrifice, Serhii Ponomarchuk was posthumously awarded the Order of Courage, 3rd Class—one of Ukraine’s most prestigious honors bestowed upon those who display heroism in battle.
He was laid to rest with full military honors in his native village of Novovorontsovka, in the Kherson region. He is survived by his mother, brother, sister, and two children.
As Ukraine continues its fight for sovereignty and freedom, the story of Serhii Ponomarchuk stands as a symbol of quiet strength, resilience, and unwavering patriotism. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him—and in the freedom he helped defend.
