Biography

Andrii Valentynovych Khomych was born on August 5, 1985, in the village of Kukly, Volyn region. His childhood and youth were spent in the nearby village of Velyka Yablunka, where he attended the local school. After graduation, he studied at the Manevychi Vocational Lyceum, training as a carpenter and builder. Skilled in his trade, he worked on construction projects across Ukraine and abroad, earning respect for his craftsmanship and dedication.

In 2003, Andrii was conscripted into the Armed Forces of Ukraine, serving in Uzhhorod with the Border Troops. He proudly fulfilled his duty before returning to civilian life in 2005. Yet his sense of patriotism never left him. In January 2015, he rejoined the army, serving in the Anti-Terrorist Operation zone in Donetsk and Luhansk regions near Soledar. As a senior gunner in an artillery unit, he endured multiple concussions and injuries, but his determination to defend Ukraine remained unshaken. For his service, he was awarded the Presidential distinction “For Participation in the Anti-Terrorist Operation”.

In 2020, Andrii signed a contract to serve in the Joint Forces Operation, joining the 24th Separate Mechanized Brigade named after King Danylo. He continued as a senior gunner in a self-propelled artillery unit, earning further commendations. In February 2022, he married and built a new family life in Volytsia, Lviv region. Despite working abroad at the time of Russia’s full-scale invasion, he returned immediately to Ukraine and was mobilized in April 2022. He served in the 65th Separate Mechanized Brigade, taking on roles as an artilleryman, mortarman, infantryman, and even assisting in evacuations of the wounded and fallen. His comrades gave him the call sign “Zvir” (Beast), reflecting his fierce hatred towards the enemy and his ability to inspire others with his positivity and strength.

On October 29, 2024, during a combat mission in Novodanylivka, Zaporizhzhia region, Andrii Khomych died during a combat operation.

He was laid to rest on November 5, 2024, in his native village of Velyka Yablunka with full military honors.

For his courage and sacrifice, Andrii was posthumously awarded the Order “For Courage,” 3rd Class, and honored with the title “Hero of Velyki Mosty Territorial Community”.

He is remembered as a devoted husband, loving father of two daughters, loyal son, and steadfast defender of Ukraine. His legacy of bravery and patriotism will never be forgotten.