On October 21, 2025, at 16:00, the War Museum will host a memorial event dedicated to Danylo “Hrach” Kandyba, a soldier of the “First Line” unit within the “Tymur Special Detachment” of the Defence Intelligence of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine.
Danylo Kandyba was born in Kryvyi Rih. He grew up in a military family and dreamed of becoming a soldier since childhood. His father, Lieutenant Colonel Serhii Kandyba, took part in combat operations from the very first days of the Russian-Ukrainian war in 2014. After graduating from the Kryvyi Rih Military Boarding Lyceum with enhanced military and physical training, Danylo signed a contract with the National Guard of Ukraine. His first deployment to the front took place in 2022, when 19-year-old Danylo fought near the city of Vuhledar.
Danylo’s father faced the full-scale invasion in Mariupol, defending the city, and was killed during an enemy shelling at Azovstal. By decree of the President of Ukraine dated February 26, 2025, he was posthumously awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine and the Order of the Golden Star.
After his father’s death, “Hrach” joined the “First Line” unit. On July 12, 2025, while performing a combat mission in the Sumy direction, Danylo’s group came under attack from a Russian drone that dropped a munition containing chloropicrin, a chemical agent banned since World War I. Danylo Kandyba suffered 80% body burns. Ukrainian and German doctors fought for his life for 22 days, but his injuries proved incompatible with life. Danylo was only 22 years old.
During the event, Danylo Kandyba’s family, fiancée, comrades, and friends will share memories of the brave warrior and hand over his personal belongings to the Museum’s collection.
We invite everyone to honor the memory of Danylo “Hrach” Kandyba and all fallen defenders who gave their lives for the freedom and independence of Ukraine.
