On January 7, 2023, Junior Sergeant Andrii Khrapanov, call sign Pardus, fell in battle near Bakhmut. His life was cut short by enemy mortar fire in the area of Klishchiivka, Donetsk region. He was only 37 years old.
Andrii was born in the village of Dniprovske, Dnipropetrovsk region. A distinguished athlete, he was a Master of Sport of Ukraine in free-fight, a candidate for Master of Sport in kickboxing, and a national champion in free-fight. But beyond his personal achievements, he became a mentor to hundreds of young fighters. He was a national-level referee, the head of the Dnipropetrovsk Regional Free-Fight Federation (2017–2023), and the founder of the “Upgrade” sports club in his hometown.
His dedication to sports was boundless. He organized competitions, led training camps, and prepared young athletes for championships. Thanks to his efforts, hundreds of young people discovered the world of martial arts, earned accolades, and forged strong characters. Andrii believed that sports instilled resilience, endurance, and the will to stand up for one’s principles.
His active civic stance led him to serve as a deputy in the Verkhnodniprovsk City Council, and his deep sense of justice took him to the front lines when Russia launched its full-scale invasion. Andrii joined the Air Assault Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, serving as an instructor in the training group of the headquarters of the 1st Airmobile Battalion, 46th Brigade.
His comrades remember him as a man of honor, never one to hide behind others, always leading the charge. He could have avoided the deadly battle near Klishchiivka—other units were under attack at the time—but without hesitation, he rushed to aid his fellow soldiers. He died a hero.
“Andrii was deeply just,” his friends recall. “He always stood up for the weak, could not tolerate injustice. Even at the front, he found time to train and support his comrades.” He left behind not only a legacy of valor but also a lasting impact on the world of sports. In his hometown, he established a free-fight club, drawing dozens of boys into the sport. He mentored a generation of young athletes, including his own son, Mykyta, a prizewinner of the Ukrainian Free-Fight Championship.
To his loved ones, Andrii was a devoted husband and a caring father. “My beloved, my dearest, the pain is unbearable. I still can’t believe it, I can’t breathe,” wrote his wife, Margarita. He did everything to ensure his family’s happiness and his country’s freedom.
Posthumously awarded the Order “For Courage” III class. Laid to rest in his native village of Dniprovske.
Bright memory to the Hero. Eternal glory to his sacrifice.