Volodymyr SOBOLEV

Volodymyr was born on March 12, 1977, in the village of Oleksiivka in the Kharkiv region. It was here that his character was forged, and his sincerity and perseverance developed, which later became his life’s credo. Choosing the responsible path of a railway worker, he graduated from the Kharkiv Railway Transport Technical School and began his career in June 1996.

For over 27 years, Volodymyr Mykolaiovych dedicated himself to the railway industry, working as an electromechanic in the Osnovyanska signaling and communication distance of the regional branch "Southern Railway." The railway was not just a job for him, but a lifelong passion, where colleagues valued him for his high skill, composure, and readiness to always lend a helping hand. He was a person who could unite like-minded individuals around him and always brought his endeavors to completion.

In October 2023, Volodymyr unhesitatingly exchanged peaceful work for the path of a warrior. As a senior sergeant of the 23rd separate mechanized brigade, he carried out complex combat missions in the Pokrovsk direction—one of the toughest sections of the front. For his comrades, Volodymyr was a reliable support, demonstrating courage and unwavering spirit in the harshest conditions of battle.

On December 28, 2023, while performing a combat mission near the settlement of Ocheretyne in Donetsk region, communication with Volodymyr was lost. For many months, family, friends, and colleagues lived in hope, believing and praying for news of his return. However, an official confirmation of the worst came later—Volodymyr Mykolaiovych had fallen, remaining true to his military oath and his people until his last breath.

The hero was forever 46 years old. His life is an example of dignity, integrity, and boundless love for his homeland. Volodymyr is survived by his mother, brother, sister, wife, and son.

The team of the "Osnovyanska signaling and communication distance" of the "Southern Railway" branch of JSC "Ukrzaliznytsia" mourns the memory of their colleague with deep sorrow. We have lost a true patriot, a bright and kind person. His heroism and self-sacrifice will forever be etched in the history of our country and in our hearts.

Eternal memory and glory to the Hero!