GUR Chief Sergeant and Former 3rd Assault Brigade Commander Danyil “Surfer” Smyrnov 🇺🇦 Killed in Action

09/01/2026

On August 28, Danyil Smyrnov, a Ukrainian defender widely known by his call sign “Surfer,” was killed in action. Smyrnov served as the Chief Sergeant of the “YoungKillersGroup” unit within the Main Directorate of Intelligence (GUR) International Legion. Prior to this role, he commanded an assault group in the 2nd Mechanized Battalion of the elite 3rd Separate Assault Brigade.

Smyrnov’s path to the military was deeply unconventional. He earned his call sign due to his lifelong passion for surfing, having spent much of his childhood training and competing in Bali. He was only 16 years old when Russia launched its full-scale invasion. After briefly moving to Lithuania to study psychology, he returned to Ukraine at 17, determined to join the armed forces. Repeatedly turned away for being underage, he officially signed a contract with the 3rd Assault Brigade the moment he turned 18.

Smyrnov saw heavy combat on the Avdiivka front, including engagements at the Avdiivka Coke Plant. After sustaining shrapnel wounds during battles near Semenivka, he underwent rehabilitation and subsequently joined the GUR International Legion.

Known for his leadership, Smyrnov frequently stated that in a protracted war, soldiers must rely on strict discipline rather than fleeting motivation. He described the loss of his fellow warriors as the heaviest psychological toll of the conflict, while calling military brotherhood the absolute highest value of his service.

The circumstances of his death have not been disclosed. Smyrnov leaves behind a pregnant wife, with their son expected to be born in a few weeks.

Glory to the Hero!