Heroism on the Frontline: The Story of Mykhailo Korsun

Senior Soldier Mykhailo Korsun of the 808th Dniester Separate Support Brigade has been honored with the 'Gold Star' award. This award represents the highest state distinction granted for remarkable acts. The award was presented by the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, as reported by the brigade's press service.

For his courage and heroism in defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, Mykhailo Korsun has been awarded the title Hero of Ukraine along with the 'Gold Star' medal.

«Thanks to people like Mykhailo, we have managed to preserve Ukraine's independence. Our country has been resisting aggression for four years. I am proud of our heroes and grateful to the families who raised them,» noted the President of Ukraine.

Mykhailo, hailing from Dnipro, volunteered for the ATO in 2014 and previously served in the Ministry of Internal Affairs. He participated in the liberation of Sloviansk and Kramatorsk.

Currently, he serves as a driver-sapper in the 808th Dniester Brigade, carrying out combat missions in the Kherson and Kursk regions since August 2023.

«When you have a son who is also serving, you perceive the situation differently. You feel responsible for the youth as if they were your own children,» Mykhailo shared in an interview.

«A strong impression was left when an entire entrance of an apartment building collapsed in our neighborhood. I remember the scattered toys after the explosion. That moment became a decisive turning point for me,» he added.

In March 2025, while performing a mission to evacuate the wounded, his vehicle was attacked by an enemy drone. Despite his injuries, he managed to save his comrades by moving the vehicle to safety.

Mykhailo successfully transported the first group of wounded to a stabilization point and returned for more. Thanks to him, around 30 soldiers received medical assistance.

He does not consider himself a hero: «I just did what was needed. It is the responsibility of each of us.»

When asked what advice he would give to recruits, Mykhailo said: «Everyone should ask themselves: are you a defender of your country or not? This is our common war. Newcomers should learn everything and not just sit idly.»