On 22 May 2024, in the area of Vovchansk, Chuhuiv district, Kharkiv region, Crimean native Police Corporal Serhii Hennadiiovych Shablyk, callsign “Krym” (Crimea), was killed in action while carrying out a combat mission. He served as a police officer in the 2nd Platoon of the 2nd Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Regiment of the Police Department of the Special Purpose Police Unit No. 2 (the Tsunami Assault Regiment) of the United Assault Brigade of the National Police of Ukraine, Liut.

At the time of the full-scale invasion, Serhii was abroad. However, without hesitation, he returned to Ukraine to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Serhii was originally from the village of Krymska Roza in the Bilohirsk district. Both of his children were also born in Crimea. In 2014, he and his family left the peninsula, unwilling to live under occupation. However, his parents and other relatives remained in Crimea, where they repeatedly faced hostility from pro-Russian residents. His mother was assaulted by occupation forces and had to be hospitalized due to the injuries she sustained.

On May 22, 2024, while holding an assault position near Vovchansk, Serhii learned on the radio communicator that his unit was surrounded. The commander said the situation was critical, and there was almost no chance of escape. Without hesitation, Serhii went to his comrades to help them break out. He deliberately drew the enemy’s fire on himself, giving others a chance at the cost of his own life.

He was posthumously awarded the Presidential Honor For the Defense of Ukraine by Decree of the President of Ukraine No. 559/2022 of August 5, 2022, and by Decree of the President of Ukraine No. 890/2024 dated 31 December 2024, Serhii Shablyk was also awarded the Order For Courage, Third Class.

By Decree of the President of Ukraine No. 559/2022 of August 5, 2022, he was awarded the Presidential Award “For the Defense of Ukraine” (posthumously) and the Order “For Courage” of the III degree (posthumously) by Decree of the President of Ukraine No. 890/2024 of December 31, 2024.

Serhii was a symbol of bravery not only on the battlefield but also in everyday life — a devoted father and husband, a sincere friend. He was always present for his family, never missing performances, trips, or shared moments. Skilled with his hands, honest, calm, cheerful, and reliable, that was Serhii.

According to his comrades, Serhii was deeply respected — always on duty, a sincere friend, and a source of positivity within the unit. His determination, smile, and unwavering belief in victory inspired those around him.

He believed in the liberation of Ukraine and his native Crimea — a belief he held until his final breath.

Glory to the hero. Eternal memory.