Biography

Ihor Mykolaiovych Maksiuta was born on August 10, 1977, in the village of Zhuky, Poltava region. He grew up in his native community, where he completed his schooling and later studied at the Kremenchuk vocational school, specializing as a tractor and combine operator. From an early age, he showed a passion for vehicles and mechanics, which later shaped his professional path. He lived in the town of Hlobyne, where he worked as a driver and was also known as an amateur musician, bringing joy to those around him with his talent and cheerful spirit.

In January 2016, Ihor signed his first contract with the Armed Forces of Ukraine, joining the 56th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade. He began his service as a driver and later rose to the position of Chief Sergeant of the repair platoon in the armament repair company. He took part in the Anti-Terrorist Operation and the Joint Forces Operation in Donbas, gaining valuable combat experience. After completing his initial contract in 2019, he briefly returned to civilian life, but soon felt the call of duty once more. In May 2019, he signed a second contract and joined the 131st Separate Reconnaissance Battalion, serving as a driver in the evacuation and withdrawal group of the reconnaissance company.

With the outbreak of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ihor continued his service in the ranks of his battalion. Known by the call sign “Rosomakha” (Wolverine), he was admired for his resilience, courage, and unwavering spirit. He participated in operations in Kherson, where he carried out reconnaissance and support missions. His comrades remembered him as a man of extraordinary strength, optimism, and loyalty, someone who could lift morale even in the darkest times.

On March 23, 2023, during an enemy artillery strike in the city of Kherson, Ihor’s life was tragically cut short.
His sacrifice marked the end of nearly seven years of dedicated military service.
For his bravery and devotion, he was posthumously awarded the Order “For Courage,” 3rd Class, by decree of the President of Ukraine.

Ihor Maksiuta was laid to rest in his native village of Zhuky, Poltava region.
His memory endures as that of a fearless defender, a devoted comrade, and a true son of Ukraine. His life and sacrifice remain a testament to the strength of spirit and love for the homeland that define the nation’s heroes.