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Sergey BulandoSergeant of the USSR Airborne Forces, participant in the Afghan War
Date of Birth: 30.06.1964
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Content:
- Sergei Bulando: A Life of Service and Sacrifice
- Passion for Sports and Adventure
- Military Career
- Service in Afghanistan
- Legacy and Remembrance
Sergei Bulando: A Life of Service and Sacrifice
Birth and Early LifeSergei Bulando was born on the outskirts of South Uralsk, Chelyabinsk Oblast, on March 2, 1962, to Belarusian parents Stepan Fyodorovich and Maria Alexandrovna Bulando. He completed his schooling at the prestigious School No. 3 in 1979 and subsequently enrolled in the South Uralsk Power Engineering College, where he specialized in "Electrical Stations, Networks, and Systems."
Passion for Sports and Adventure
Sergei possessed a deep love for sports, excelling in both winter and summer disciplines. He was an avid skier and track and field athlete, and he pursued boxing with equal enthusiasm. In May 1980, he obtained a driver's license under the Voluntary Society for Assistance to the Army, Aviation, and Navy (VDOAM). His adventurous spirit led him to complete a skydiving course at the Magnitogorsk DOSAAF Society.
Military Career
Upon graduating from college on March 2, 1983, Sergei's military service commenced on March 30. He was assigned to the Soviet Airborne Forces, a testament to his remarkable physical and mental fortitude. After completing training as a junior commander, he was promoted to the rank of junior sergeant and deployed to Afghanistan.
Service in Afghanistan
Sergei's responsibilities as a platoon commander in Afghanistan required unwavering discipline and leadership. However, he balanced his firm demeanor with a compassionate and understanding nature, earning the respect and admiration of his subordinates.
In the summer of 1984, Sergei's unit participated in an operation to neutralize Mujahideen rebels in the vicinity of Bazar-i-Kala in the Helmand Province. During intense fighting, Sergei sustained a critical injury when a bullet struck his hand while attempting to throw a grenade. The impact severed his ring and little fingers. For his bravery, he was promoted to sergeant and received an official commendation on December 31, 1984.
In March 1985, Sergei and his unit were tasked with establishing an ambush in the Gerishk district of Helmand Province. A fierce three-hour battle ensued, during which Mujahideen reinforcements arrived in overwhelming numbers. Sergei and his platoon fought valiantly, holding back the enemy forces for over 40 minutes. Unfortunately, Sergei was struck by shrapnel in the head, rendering him unconscious. He was airlifted to a military hospital in Tashkent, but his injuries proved fatal. Sergei passed away on March 21, 1985, never regaining consciousness.
Legacy and Remembrance
Sergei Bulando was laid to rest in his hometown of South Uralsk. His sacrifice is commemorated by his mother, who still resides there today. His father tragically passed away in 1995 in a road accident. Sergei's bravery and dedication will forever be etched in the memory of his family, friends, and the nation he served with honor.
