Valeriy KARPENKO

Valeriy Anatoliyovych Karpenko, a track layer with an unbreakable spirit and a warrior with the call sign "Zvyrobyi," will forever be remembered as a person of great soul and incredible life force. For over a year, his family and colleagues lived in hope while the search continued, but in March 2026, official confirmation arrived: Valeriy was killed on March 13, 2025, while carrying out a combat mission near the settlement of Nadiivka in the Pokrovsk direction.

Valeriy was born on May 11, 1977, in Nizhyn. His life was filled with trials, which he faced with dignity, earning deep respect.

He joined the railway collective in February 2023, working as a third-category track layer for the Nizhyn track distance of the "South-Western Railway."

Although he worked on the railway for only two years, his colleagues remembered him as an exceptionally independent and resilient person. Valeriy was not afraid of hard work—hardened by a difficult childhood, he learned to rely on his own strength and take responsibility for every step he took.

In June 2024, Valeriy Anatoliyovych took up arms to defend Ukraine. His combat journey was short but filled with true warrior valor. He fought as part of the legendary 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade named after the Black Zaporizhians. He endured the hell of battles near Vuhledar, where he was wounded but later returned to the front lines. His call sign "Zvyrobyi" reflected his deep knowledge of nature and inner strength.

Valeriy did not embark on his service alone—his dog accompanied him, providing comfort and becoming a favorite among the entire unit.

Outside of war and work, Valeriy was an extraordinarily interesting and profound individual.

He had a passionate love for the history of Ukraine, read extensively, and dreamed of traveling across his native land. He was knowledgeable about phytotherapy and medicinal plants.

Valeriy managed to plant a young orchard and start renovations on his family estate. He wanted to restore the family nest, pouring all his love for his homeland into this endeavor.

He was a person who independently found his mother in his teenage years and cared for her until the end—this speaks to his big heart and capacity for deep devotion.

The loss of Valeriy is a pain that is hard to measure in words. He is survived by his father, son, and brother.

The team at the Nizhyn track distance expresses its deepest condolences to the family. We have lost not just a track layer, but a true Hero, whose courage and humanity serve as an example for each of us. His garden will surely bloom, and his memory will live on through the ages.

Eternal memory and honor to Hero Valeriy Karpenko!