On September 28, 2022, in a battle in Donetsk region, Ukrainian defender Serhii Stolbtsov, a soldier of the 102nd Territorial Defense Battalion of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and a master of sports in powerlifting, was killed. An enemy tank shell struck the trench where he was holding the line, inflicting fatal injuries. He was 34 years old.
Serhii was born in the city of Novomoskovsk, Dnipropetrovsk region. He studied at local School No. 6 and, in 2010, graduated with honors from the Faculty of Geology and Geography at Oles Honchar Dnipro National University. He worked as a geography teacher, headed the Department of Natural Sciences at the Dnipropetrovsk Lyceum of Information Technologies at DNU, and, starting in 2014, also taught at the “European Gymnasium” educational complex in Dnipro.
Beyond his teaching career, Serhii achieved significant success in sports. Passionate about powerlifting, he became a two-time champion of Ukraine and earned the title of master of sports. He trained at the “Bypass” club in Samara, demonstrating not only strength but also resilience and perseverance. Additionally, he held a first-class rank in target shooting and chess. His athletic achievements were a reflection of his character—his ability to fight, set goals, and support others.
With the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Serhii, despite having the right to deferment as an educator, voluntarily joined the local territorial defense forces. Serving in the 102nd Battalion of the 108th Separate Territorial Defense Brigade, he initially took on the role of a rifleman. Two weeks before his death, he was appointed acting platoon commander. Documents were being prepared for his officer rank, but time ran out—he fell in battle.
Serhii is remembered as a devoted son of Ukraine, a loyal friend, and a true patriot. “He was a talented teacher, beloved by his students and respected by his colleagues. A well-rounded, intelligent individual who loved life and treated others with dignity,” his friends recall.
For his combat service, Serhii Stolbtsov was posthumously awarded the Order of Courage, Third Class. He was laid to rest in his hometown of Novomoskovsk.
Eternal memory and honor to Ukraine’s defender!