Stanislav Harmash was a young man with a passion for engineering, sports, music, and technology. He dreamed of building a successful career, traveling the world, and creating a better future. Instead, when Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, he chose to defend his homeland. He became a volunteer, fought on some of the war's fiercest frontlines, saved a fellow soldier under enemy fire, and ultimately sacrificed his own life for Ukraine.

A Childhood Filled with Curiosity

Stanislav Harmash was born on September 6, 1995, in the city of Dnipro. From an early age, he showed a keen interest in mechanics and technology.

After completing the ninth grade, he enrolled in the Rocket and Space Engineering College of Oles Honchar Dnipro National University, where he studied machine maintenance and robotic systems. Four years later, in 2015, he graduated as an electromechanical technician specializing in CNC machine tools and robotic complexes.

Determined to continue his education, Stanislav entered the National Metallurgical Academy of Ukraine, joining the third year of the Mechanical Engineering Faculty. In 2017, he earned his bachelor's degree.

A Man of Many Talents

Beyond engineering, Stanislav loved sports. Football and boxing were among his favorite activities, and he always tried to maintain excellent physical condition.

He was also passionate about filmmaking and music, spending time recording songs and creating videos. Friends and family remember him as someone who enjoyed life to the fullest and was constantly learning something new.

Fishing was another favorite hobby, and he became well known among friends for preparing delicious homemade sushi.

His younger sister Anastasiia remembers him as the person she could always rely on.

"Stanislav was my greatest support. He was incredibly kind and caring. Whenever life became difficult, I knew he would always be there for me."

Within the family, he had several affectionate nicknames. Friends often called him "Stasyan," while his sister lovingly called him "Maloy." At first he disliked the nickname, but eventually it became something special between them.

Military Service Before the War

In 2018, Stanislav was drafted for compulsory military service in Military Unit 3036 of the National Guard of Ukraine. After completing his service the following year, he returned to civilian life.

In 2021, he decided to pursue new opportunities abroad and traveled to Poland, where he completed professional training as a long-haul truck driver. However, history had different plans.

Choosing to Defend Ukraine

When Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, Stanislav did not hesitate.

In May 2022, he voluntarily joined Ukraine's Defense Forces and became part of the 203rd Separate Battalion of the 108th Territorial Defense Brigade.

He fought in some of the most dangerous sectors of the front, including the Velyka Novosilka area in Donetsk Oblast and later in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Serving as a senior driver and grenade launcher operator, he adopted the callsign "Konungr," inspired by a character from a computer game. The name comes from Old Norse and means "King" or "Ruler."

Courage Under Fire

Despite the hardships of war, Stanislav remained modest and never boasted about his achievements.

His sister recalls:

"He never sought praise. He had a kind heart and was always ready to help others. His fellow soldiers respected him and protected him as one of their own."

His comrades describe numerous moments when Stanislav displayed exceptional courage.

During one combat mission, he risked his own life to rescue a fellow soldier under enemy fire. His bravery and dedication earned him the military distinction "For Conscientious Service."

His Final Battle

On November 25, 2025, while carrying out a combat mission near the village of Barvinivka in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Stanislav and his unit came under heavy Russian shelling.

The senior driver and grenade launcher operator was killed during the battle.

He was only 30 years old.

The defender is survived by his parents and sister.

A Promise That Became a Farewell

Perhaps the most heartbreaking memory belongs to his sister.

On Stanislav's birthday in September, she told him she could not imagine life without him.

He quietly replied:

"If something happens to me, you'll tell people what kind of person I was."

Just two months later, their father called to say that Stanislav had been killed.

Anastasiia still struggles to accept the loss.

"I cannot stop thinking about him. Sometimes it still feels like he'll walk through the door at any moment."

She says that even while serving on the front lines, Stanislav's greatest concern was always his family.

"He wanted to come home, hug us again, and see a peaceful sky over Ukraine. That's why he fought every single day."

Eternal Memory

Stanislav Harmash was laid to rest at Krasnopilske Cemetery in Dnipro.

He is survived by his parents and younger sister.

A petition on the website of the President of Ukraine is currently collecting signatures requesting that he be awarded the title Hero of Ukraine (posthumously).

Stanislav Harmash gave up a promising future so that future generations of Ukrainians could have one. His courage, kindness, and unwavering devotion to his country remain an enduring example of sacrifice and honor.

Eternal glory and gratitude to the Defender of Ukraine.

Photos provided by Anastasia Harmash

Prepared by the Ukrainian National Agency Ukrinform in collaboration with the Ukrainian Institute of National Memory and online media of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine ArmyInform