Denys Horodetskyi was born on 17 May 1990 in the city of Sievierodonetsk, eastern Ukraine. He completed higher vocational school in 2002, specializing as a motor vehicle repairman. Over the next 15 years, Denys amassed considerable experience as a driver across a range of vehicles. He was tireless, kind and professional, with an incredible ability to connect with people.

Denys joined the ICRC’s Sievierodonetsk subdelegation in October 2017 as a light vehicle driver. From then on, his ICRC career was a testament to hard work and dedication. Keen to get directly involved in assisting others, he became an economic security officer helping to provide food, shelter and other support to families affected by the conflict. His professional growth and willingness to take on more responsibility earned him admiration and respect. He was highly esteemed by his colleagues.

Throughout his life, Denys not only honed his professional skills but also consistently prioritized the wellbeing of others, even in the most challenging circumstances. His courage during the escalation of the conflict in 2022 deserves special recognition. Despite being in the ICRC shelter in Sievierodonetsk with his pregnant wife and young daughter, Denys did not hesitate to help others. He volunteered for the most dangerous assignments, often risking his life to deliver medical supplies to hospitals treating wounded civilians and soldiers. He navigated the devastated streets of his hometown, doing everything he could to support those in need.

After evacuating his family to Dnipro, Denys immediately returned to work. He underwent retraining to drive armoured and heavy vehicles and took part in vital operations, including the repatriation of human remains across the frontline. His bravery and dedication, often under extremely hazardous conditions, were unparalleled.

Denys was also a key figure in humanitarian operations during the evacuation of Mariupol. Despite personal challenges involving his pregnant wife and young child, he repeatedly participated in the most complex and sensitive operations. His work brought hope and relief to thousands of people in despair.

Colleagues remember Denys as someone who radiated warmth and optimism. His sharp sense of humour and limitless energy lifted spirits even in the darkest moments. His willingness to help, boundless work ethic and genuine care for others made him an example to all.

Transitioning to new roles was another challenge that Denys embraced with dignity. He actively improved his language skills, worked as an assistant in the economic security team and continued his development, striving to achieve even more. His ability to adapt, learn and succeed in extraordinarily difficult circumstances commanded immense respect.

Denys was not only a colleague and friend to many but also a loving husband and father. For his family, he was a source of unconditional love and support, always putting their needs above his own. His wife and daughters were his greatest joy, and he did everything possible to ensure their safety and happiness, even in the hardest times.

On 12 September 2024, Denys was part of an ICRC team delivering winter fuel to the village of Viroliubivka, Donetsk region, when their vehicles were hit by shellfire. Denys, who was 40, and two colleagues – Serhii Lubinets and Vladimir Shamsky – were killed in the attack. Two other ICRC staff members were injured.

Speaking after the tragedy, ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric condemned their deaths in the strongest terms: “It’s unconscionable that shelling would hit an aid distribution site. Our hearts are broken today as we mourn the loss of our colleagues and care for the injured. This tragedy unleashes a wave of grief all too familiar to those who have lost loved ones in armed conflict.”

Denys was a man whose courage, dedication and determination left an indelible mark on the hearts of everyone who knew him. He was not just a colleague, friend, son, husband and father, he was a symbol of resilience, bravery and compassion. His memory will always serve as a reminder of the importance of living with purpose and love.