In memory of the Azov defender’s family who died in Mariupol

Today is a family day. And I want to tell the story of a family that was very close to me. They died here in Mariupol.

Vitalii Taran and Alla Taran. Both left Krasnohorivka in 2014. They became volunteers. They were in the Azov Regiment almost from its creation. They worked in the kitchen, and then signed up for service.

Alla was a clerk, Vitalii was the head of finances. He was wounded in one of the battles, but did not go to the hospital. He stayed with his unit.

They married in Azov. Their family was born here, and also grew up here. Their son was also born here in Mariupol.

They were together until the last moment. And they followed one another.

These are real people. Real. Young and thirsty for life.

Allochka [Alla] used to work as a hairdresser and do manicures. And she wanted everything around her to be beautiful. She was always the soul of the company. Proactive, she was always busy and could get through a pile of work in no time.. 

Vitalik always worried more for others than for himself. He had a great voice and sang very well.

I will say this: it's scary when the psyche adapts and defends itself to bear it all. You can stand it. And then your relatives die. The whole family.

First the husband - my friend - Vitalik Taran, died on 15 April. Alla became a widow. And then on 8 May, a Russian air bomb killed her. Their kid has been left an orphan.

We were friends. Allochka baptised my son.

Two Heroes died. The whole family died. And there was nothing I could do…

All the command, and I, all of us are fighting 24/7 to save our military.

And this is a story about only one family. But you have to understand that a lot of families are dying here. Even now.

Today is International Family Day. Think of Alla and Vitalii when you think of your families and hug your loved ones.

Remember that these young and beautiful people are now dying defending our land.

Sviatoslav Palamar "Kalyna"