The Tragic Death of Marina Hrytsenko
On August 6, 2025, Junior Sergeant Marina Hrytsenko, known by the call sign 'Mary,' was killed by an enemy drone attack near the village of Novoyegorivka in the Luhansk region. Two of her comrades-in-arms also died on that tragic day. Hrytsenko was 39 years old, born on May 26, 1986, in the village of Ripky, Chernihiv region. Her death is a stark reminder of the persistent threat from unmanned aerial systems on the front lines.
The Life and Service of Marina Hrytsenko
Marina Hrytsenko graduated from Local School No. 2 and later earned a higher education in history from the T.H. Shevchenko National University 'Chernihiv Collegium.' Following her studies, she worked at the Chernihiv Regional Art Museum named after Hryhoriy Galagan, holding positions as a research fellow and chief custodian of the collections. In 2021, she and her daughter, Yuliia, joined the Plast scouting organization, where she became a camp counselor and secretary for the Expedition 2022 camp in Bukovyna. In October 2022, she affiliated as a supporter with the Ukrainian Volunteer Corps 'Steppe Vixens' unit.
From February 2023, Marina served as a rifleman-medic in the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade. During her service, she participated in combat operations in the Kharkiv region. In January 2025, she was awarded the Order for Courage, 3rd Class, by the President of Ukraine for her bravery and valor. Following cremation, Marina Hrytsenko was buried in Chernihiv. She is survived by her parents and her daughter.
Colleagues from the Chernihiv Regional Art Museum noted that she embodied the museum's resilience during its siege, and her character and indomitable spirit inspired everyone around her.
"The museum has not only lost an employee; the museum has lost a part of itself," they stated.Senior research fellow at the Chernihiv Regional Historical Museum named after Vasyl Tarnovsky, Serhii Laievskyi, also emphasized:
"A young, delicate girl with incredible willpower. And she endured."
The tragic death of Marina Hrytsenko is a loss not only for her family but for the entire community, which will remember her as a courageous and dedicated woman. This event underscores the sacrifices borne by Ukrainian military personnel and civilians during the conflict and the importance of remembering those who have given their lives for their country. Marina Hrytsenko leaves behind not only memories but also an example of resilience, bravery, and service that continues to inspire others during this difficult time.
The impact of the ongoing conflict is felt deeply as we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Similar to the story of Serhii Dyshko, whose remains were identified years after his death at Azovstal, the legacy of heroes like Marina Hrytsenko continues to resonate. Both individuals exemplify courage in the face of adversity, highlighting the sacrifices made by service members. To learn more about Serhii Dyshko's story and the challenges faced by his family, visit the account of his identification three years later.