In January 2023, during intense fighting in Bakhmut, Ukraine, Dziubynskyi of the 95th Air Assault Brigade found himself surrounded by Russian forces. His friend, Vova Androshchuk, was killed in the crossfire, prompting Dziubynskyi to use his body as a shield to protect himself. This was not the first time Androshchuk had saved Dziubynskyi, as he had previously prevented a Russian soldier from shooting him in December 2022. Despite the harrowing circumstances that brought them together, their friendship was solidified by their mutual love for sports. Dziubynskyi, a rower, and Androshchuk, a former decathlon champion, bonded over their shared stubbornness and strength. Dziubynskyi taught Androshchuk military tactics, and they supported each other in combat. The tragic loss of Androshchuk during the fighting in Bakhmut served as a reminder of the strong bond they had formed. Their story is a testament to the camaraderie and loyalty that can develop between soldiers facing the horrors of war.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
