Biography

Ihor Olehovych Demchenko was born on June 15, 1996, in the city of Yavoriv, Lviv region. He studied at the Lviv Higher Vocational School of Information and Computer Technologies, where he trained as a computer operator. In civilian life, Ihor worked in the IT field as a programmer, combining professional skills with a passion for sports, especially football. He was known for his sociability, generosity, and ability to connect with people of all ages, always ready to support and advise his family and friends.

In 2019, Ihor was conscripted into the National Guard of Ukraine, serving in military unit 3033 based in Berdiansk. Within months, he signed a contract with the 23rd Separate Brigade for Public Order Protection “Khortytsia.” His service took him regularly to the Joint Forces Operation zone near Mariupol, where he gained valuable combat experience.

When Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ihor and his unit were stationed in Mariupol, enduring the siege and fighting to defend the city. Despite overwhelming enemy fire, he managed to escape in March 2022, helping his comrades survive and regroup.

Later, Ihor continued his service in the National Guard and in October 2022 transferred to the mortar platoon of the 12th Special Purpose Brigade “Azov.” His comrades knew him by the call sign “Dema,” and he was respected for his courage, responsibility, and unwavering commitment to duty.

On May 6, 2024, during combat in the Serebrianske forestry near the village of Dibrova in Luhansk region, Ihor was killed in action.

For his bravery and sacrifice, he was posthumously awarded the Order “For Courage,” 3rd Class, and earlier had received the Medal “Veteran of War.”

Ihor Demchenko was laid to rest in his native Yavoriv, Lviv region.

His memory is honored not only by his family and comrades but also by his community, where a children’s football tournament was established in his name. He is remembered as a devoted son, loyal brother, and fearless defender of Ukraine who leaves behind a legacy of courage, resilience, and honor.