A Veteran's Birthday
Alexey Likhtorovich, a 101-year-old World War II veteran, recently celebrated his birthday in Lutsk. Despite his advanced age, he maintains an active lifestyle, follows a strict routine, and handles all his daily chores independently. His son, Yuriy Oleksiyovych, shared details of the veteran's biography, his reaction to the full-scale invasion, and the family's history of longevity.
An Active Routine
Alexey wakes up at 6:30 a.m. and takes his mixed-breed dog, Dara, for walks twice a day. He cooks his own meals, goes grocery shopping, pays his utility bills, and visits the post office. 'He walks the dog twice a day and also goes into the city for other errands, like to the barber,' his son noted.
Alexey also performs physical exercises twice daily. 'The main thing I can highlight is his positive outlook on life. And his physical exercises during the day. He does exercises and gymnastics twice a day,' Yuriy Oleksiyovych added.
The veteran keeps up with news at both the regional and global levels. 'He even has a favorite blogger who covers world politics. But the main news he follows is about Ukraine,' his son explained. However, Alexey's hearing has deteriorated, which is a family trait, though just three years ago he could read without glasses.
Alexey Likhtorovich joined the army in 1943 from Siberia, where he was born. After graduating from military school in 1947, he was assigned to the Carpathian Military District. In 1975, he moved with his family to Lutsk. 'He joined the army in 1943 from Siberia, where he was born and where his entire family remained at the time. After finishing military school in 1947, he was sent to the Carpathian Military District. In 1975, he moved with his family to Lutsk,' Yuriy Oleksiyovych stated.
The veteran's personal history includes tragic moments:
- His father was killed at the front in 1943.
- His mother died after being hit by a train.
- Following the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022, his eldest son passed away.
- His younger son relocated from Kyiv to care for him.
Alexey Likhtorovich now has eight grandchildren and great-grandchildren, but only a grandson and granddaughter remain in Ukraine.
Alexey Likhtorovich does not hide his feelings about the current political situation in Ukraine, expressing a desire to end the aggression:
'Give me a pistol. I want to kill Putin.'His life journey and resilience serve as an example to many, and his active stance in old age inspires optimism. His story reflects the profound impact the war has had across generations in Ukraine.
The story of Alexey Likhtorovich illustrates not only the personal experiences of a veteran but also mirrors the difficult times Ukraine is enduring. Despite all the losses and hardships, his determination and active stance serve as an example for the younger generation facing new challenges. The veteran, as a symbol of resilience and love for life, reminds us of the importance of memory and the fight for peace in the country.
As the war in Ukraine continues to unfold, the experiences of veterans like Alexey Likhtorovich remind us of the enduring spirit of those who have faced conflict throughout history. For a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by veterans in recent years, explore the journey of another defender, whose transition from a 'Cyborg' to a wounded warrior since 2014 highlights the ongoing struggles and resilience of those who serve. Read more about this impactful story here.