At 103, a WWII Veteran from Odesa Region Drinks Homemade Wine Daily and Donates to Ukraine’s Army

Long-Lived Veteran from Odesa Region

According to Главком: Vasyl Khomyzhenko, a 103-year-old World War II veteran living in the Odesa region, consumes homemade wine every day and regularly contributes funds to the Armed Forces of Ukraine. His story showcases not only remarkable longevity but also unwavering dedication to supporting the military. He resides in the Bessarabian community with his wife Maria, who is 15 years his junior, and together they maintain an active lifestyle.

Khomyzhenko got married at age 90 and continued driving a car until he turned 100. He has been making his own wine for roughly 70 years, drinking 100 grams of it daily. Drafted into the Soviet army in 1945, he served as an infantryman and was captured, spending six months as a prisoner of war. Reflecting on that time, he says:

“I was there for six months. It was terrifying. The only food we got was a piece of bread the size of a matchbox - I split it into three portions for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. That’s how I survived, and later I managed to escape, just in time to witness Victory.”

Today, Khomyzhenko not only recalls his past but also actively aids Ukrainian soldiers. He donates between 1,000 and 2,000 hryvnias for military needs and has ordered and sent a portable stove to the front lines. “We hear the air raid sirens, we see what the army needs, the guys ask for help - it’s wrong for us to stand aside. So I’ve sent a thousand or two, never forgetting. Then I ordered a stove in my name; it was made and shipped to the soldiers at the front,” the veteran emphasizes.

The Secret to a Long Life

Khomyzhenko attributes his longevity to physical activity, a positive outlook on life, and his long-standing tradition of making homemade wine. In this way, he remains not just a witness to history but an active participant, inspiring others to do good deeds.

His story stands as a symbol of resilience and patriotism, especially relevant amid the current challenges facing Ukraine. By supporting the armed forces even at his advanced age, he proves that one can stay engaged in civic life and contribute during difficult times. Such examples motivate younger generations and highlight the importance of mutual aid and solidarity in society.