Vyacheslav Horidko is from Kharkiv. He has been working in the prosecutor's office since 2005: initially in investigative positions, later as a prosecutor. Before the full-scale invasion, he held the position of prosecutor in the department overseeing compliance with laws in the investigation of crimes against life in the Kharkiv region prosecutor's office.

“The leadership and the team support me in my service, and the department is waiting for my return. Many of the prosecutors in our office are ATO participants who have been defending the country since 2014,” shares Vyacheslav.

He decided to defend his homeland from Russian invaders immediately – and at 8 a.m. on February 24, he was already standing in line with other volunteers. Since then, Vyacheslav has been defending the country as part of the 3rd Operational Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine "Spartan."

“In the first hours of the war, while at the military unit, I remember the faces of the volunteers: their faces clearly showed the anticipation of the unknown. They were standing in line for weapons, uniforms, ammunition... These were truly ideological men who voluntarily went to defend their homeland. Our brigade, together with the 92nd, took up defense on the ring road of Kharkiv,” recalls the man.

In September of that year, Vyacheslav sustained a severe gunshot explosive injury and underwent several surgeries. After rehabilitation, he returned to service.

Over the years of the war, the prosecutor has also served as a combat medic and an operator in an anti-tank platoon. Together with his unit, he defended and liberated the Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia regions. Currently, Vyacheslav is the commander of a platoon in the "Spartan" brigade, which is fighting in the Pokrovsk direction.

He maintains his connection with his civilian position and plans to return to work in the prosecutor's office:

“I always remember that I am a prosecutor, so I must behave exemplary. Now, during my service, my prosecutorial experience helps in making balanced decisions. After the war, I plan to use my accumulated vacation days, resolve all issues, and return to my work as a prosecutor.”

His support comes from faith and memories of fallen comrades.

“The memory of them does not allow me to take advantage of the 'armor' and leave the army. The flower of the nation is perishing – young boys and girls, many of whom did not yet have families or children. It is very sad that my native Kharkiv is still suffering from enemy drones, missiles, and KABs.”

In Vyacheslav's opinion, Ukrainians have already achieved victory in this war: “We have defended our sovereignty. In time, I am 100% sure we will regain our territories.”

The Office of the Prosecutor General thanks the defenders of the Ukrainian State.