Biography

Oleksandr Mykhailovych Vakula was born and lived in the village of Bilovod, Sumy region. He completed his studies at the local school and later trained as a turner at the Zavodske Higher Vocational School. After fulfilling his mandatory military service, Oleksandr worked abroad for some time, gaining experience and supporting his family. In 2010, he married, and together with his wife he raised a son and a daughter. He enjoyed fishing and was remembered as a man who valued simple joys and the warmth of family life.

His last civilian workplace was at the Poltava Directorate of Railway Transportation of the Southern Railway, where he worked as an auxiliary worker at the Andriyashivka station. Colleagues described him as sincere, loyal, and dependable, someone who could always be trusted.

On December 22, 2022, Oleksandr joined the ranks of the 4th Separate Tank Brigade named after Hetman Ivan Vyhovskyi (military unit A7015). He served as a machine gunner in a rifle squad of the rifle platoon, rifle company, rifle battalion. For nearly two years, he defended Ukraine on some of the most difficult sectors of the front, showing courage and resilience in the face of constant danger.

On August 7, 2024, during combat operations in Sumy region, Oleksandr was fatally wounded while performing his military duty. His death was a heavy loss for his family, friends, and fellow soldiers, who mourned not only a brave defender but also a beloved son, husband, and father.

For his personal courage and loyalty to the military oath, Oleksandr Vakula was posthumously awarded the Order for Courage, 3rd Class. His sacrifice was honored by the community, and his name was inscribed among those who gave their lives for Ukraine’s freedom.

Oleksandr’s memory lives on in the hearts of his loved ones and comrades. His life story is a testament to devotion, resilience, and selflessness. He stood firm in defense of his homeland, gave his strength and courage to the struggle for independence, and ultimately laid down his life for Ukraine.