Heroic Defender Lost: The Tragic Death of Dmytro Hornov on the Frontlines
In tragic circumstances, the heartbreaking news of the death of former Sushpille Chernihiv sound engineer Dmytro Hornov has shocked the entire community. Dmytro heroically sacrificed his life fighting for Ukraine, defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity amid ongoing hostilities. His story resonated deeply with his loved ones and the city of Chernihiv. Born in Dniprorudne, he later moved with his family to Nizhyn, where he completed his early education and graduated from the Lyceum affiliated with Nizhyn Mykola Hohol State University. Dmytro’s youth was marked by active civic engagement, participation in various creative initiatives, and musical pursuits. He led the popular rock band «Viry», writing songs for the group himself. In 2018, the band released their debut album «Edges of Dreams». That same year, Dmytro moved to Chernihiv to work for the national broadcaster «Suspilne Chernihiv». His life was multifaceted: in 2019, he married, and later their family was blessed with a daughter named Varya. Besides his media career, Dmytro hosted his own radio show «To Play or Not to Play?», dedicated to educating children through music. He also participated in the production of the film «The Battle for Chernihiv». Additionally, he worked in the IT sector and at a brewery in Chernihiv. In April 2024, he was mobilized into the Ukrainian Armed Forces. After training in Great Britain and further preparation in Ukraine, he became a rifleman-medical attendant and later an instructor. In May 2025, Dmytro received the rank of Junior Lieutenant and was appointed platoon commander of the 158th Separate Mechanized Brigade. Tragically, on June 21, 2025, he lost his life during a combat mission in the Sumy direction when an enemy guided bomb struck him. He was survived by his pregnant wife, his five-year-old daughter Varya, and his grandfather. The memory of the hero remains forever alive, and heartfelt condolences go to his family and loved ones during this mournful time. The end of June also marked a tragic event: on the night of June 29, Ukraine lost pilot Maxym Ustymenko, who was posthumously awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine and the «Golden Star» order—another tragic testament to the sacrifice of Ukrainian defenders.