Devastating news for Odesa. While carrying out his duty, Konstantin Oborin - a veteran of the Afghan war, participant in the modern struggle for Ukraine's independence, director of the aviation club «Odesa», volunteer, mentor, and a person of great heart and courage - lost his life...

This was reported by Odesa's mayor, Gennady Trukhanov, on Telegram.

Konstantin endured the horrors of war but did not become bitter - instead, he dedicated his life to serving and supporting others. He became a symbol of hope and rehabilitation for veterans, providing new opportunities through parachuting, flights, and genuine human connection. His life philosophy - «the air heals» - has been a wing for many.

In 2014, risking his own life, Konstantin rescued 29 Ukrainian soldiers from captivity. In 2022, flying over Odesa, he fulfilled the last wish of his student - Hero of Ukraine Vladislav Buvalkin - to scatter his ashes over his hometown. That same year, he was honored with the Order of Hryhoriy Marazli of the 3rd degree.

Konstantin was not just a soldier; he was a friend, a mentor, a volunteer, and a role model. We met in the 90s, and our paths crossed often. We discussed veteran policies, military support, rehabilitation, and the dignified honoring of those defending Ukraine. His experience and sincerity were invaluable.

Recently, we had seen little of each other - even at the age of 63, he continued to fulfill combat missions. He died true to his oath, his comrades, and Ukraine.

His death is a painful loss for all of Odesa, for those who saw him as a light, a support, and an example.

I express my sincere condolences to his family, loved ones, and everyone who knew Konstantin. His name will remain in our memories, in the sky, and in our hearts.