In Memory of Volunteer Denys Halushko (Callsign 'Brother')

Denys Halushko, born on August 27, 1984, grew up in a family where the traditions of Cossack heritage were passed down through generations. His grandfathers and great-grandfathers were Cossacks, which instilled in the family a profound love for Ukraine from an early age. Aware of the importance of cultural heritage, Denys's parents opened a restaurant named 'Kozachok,' which became popular in their city. The establishment's brand featured a photograph of young Denys dressed as a Cossack, symbolizing a connection to the history and traditions of the Ukrainian people. Eventually, Denys took over the restaurant, continuing his parents' legacy.

Denys had a keen interest in Ukrainian history, reading extensively and dreaming of writing his own book. He was deeply attached to his family, which formed the foundation of his values. In 2014, during the Revolution of Dignity, he actively participated in protests and later became a volunteer, initiating fundraising efforts to support Ukrainian soldiers in the ATO zone. Patrons of his restaurant fondly remember his creative money-collecting efforts, including a tank-shaped donation box where he encouraged customers to contribute to the military's needs.

As a father of three, Denys faced health challenges that could have deterred him from joining the front lines; however, he chose a different path. At the onset of Russia's large-scale invasion, he enlisted as a volunteer. Denys participated in battles for the capital and carried out combat missions in Kharkiv and Donetsk regions. His bravery and determination became an inspiration for many.

Yuriy Lukyanchuk, a mortar operator from the 58th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade, recalls how he met Denys: 'We were in the same unit but performed different tasks. In the spring, I first met his brother Maksym, and then Denys. At the end of March and the beginning of April, we fought together near Makariv. After we liberated Kyiv region, Denys, his brother, and sappers from the Presidential regiment collected trophies near Kyiv.' These memories highlight the close bonds formed among soldiers who shared the hardships of war.

Denys himself wrote in his posts: 'I defended Kyiv for obvious reasons. This is my hometown. Then Kharkiv and the surrounding villages, and now Donetsk. Sometimes you ask yourself why all this, and what am I doing here? The answer is simple. I have no home. My home is a united Ukraine! My Kyiv, my Makariv, my Kharkiv, my Shestakove, Kutuzivka, my Donetsk!' These words reflect his deep sense of patriotism and devotion to his homeland.

Denys was killed on January 8, 2023, leaving behind two daughters and a son who awaited their father's return from the brutal war he joined to protect them. His father, Oleksandr, shared how his grandson Semen has been supporting his mother since Denys's death: 'Katya is feeling very, very bad right now because they were happy. They have three children. My grandson is 14 years old, my granddaughter Sonya is a year younger, and Matilda just turned 5 in November. The day after Denys passed away, his son Semen approached his mother and said he would now be a father to Matilda. How brave he is, even though he is still so young.' These words emphasize not only the loss but also the strength and courage that children exhibit in difficult times.

Denys, like hundreds of thousands of his comrades, chose the path of a warrior to cleanse the world of evil through victory over the aggressor. It is essential to preserve the memory of all knights of light, like Denys, as they are the salt of our Earth. Their heroism and self-sacrifice will forever remain in the history of Ukraine.

Photo: ArmyInform, Facebook page of Denys Halushko

This article was prepared by the Ukrainian National Agency Ukrinform in collaboration with the Ukrainian Institute of National Memory and the online media of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, ArmyInform. Join us on our channels on Telegram, Instagram, and YouTube.