The Service of State Emergency Service Firefighter Serhiy Azatskyi
Serhiy Azatskyi, a firefighter from the Kharkiv region with Ukraine's State Emergency Service (SES), recounts his duties and work during Russia's full-scale invasion, particularly in the city of Kharkiv. Azatskyi describes firefighting as his true calling and states he was not intimidated by the immense challenges that arose during this difficult period.
'We were not prepared for a war like this. But we were not afraid. And we did not let Kharkiv burn,' emphasized firefighter Serhiy Azatskyi.
Serhiy Azatskyi has 15 years of service in the SES, which he joined immediately after his military service. On February 24, 2022, the day the invasion began, he received a call at five in the morning, marking the start of his intense work during emergencies. One of the most difficult tasks was extinguishing a fire at the 'Epitsentr' home improvement store on Heroiv Pratsi Street, which erupted following an airstrike.
For his courage and dedication, Serhiy Azatskyi was awarded the medal 'For the Defence of Ukraine'.
'A life saved is the greatest reward. You cannot measure it with money,' he noted, stressing the importance of his mission.
Azatskyi believes that rescue workers play a vital role in protecting cities and people, and their work represents true heroism in wartime. Society recognizes such efforts, and unarmed heroes like Azatskyi continue to inspire people with their resilience and bravery. The State Emergency Service of Ukraine is a critical civil defense force that has been operating under relentless fire since the war's outset.
The Critical Role of Rescue Workers
The testimony of Serhiy Azatskyi and his active involvement in mitigating the consequences of the Russian invasion underscore the indispensable role of rescue workers during war. They not only save lives but also bolster public morale by demonstrating courage and self-sacrifice.
Stories like this help society appreciate the value of everyday heroes who, risking their own lives, stand in defense of others, setting a positive example to follow. This also highlights the importance of supporting civil protection services in the face of modern challenges.