Life story
One of the brave sons who loved his homeland with all his heart and sacrificed his life for it without hesitation was David Jalilov, son of Rauf. David was born on February 29, 2004, in the town of Khudat, Khachmaz district. He was the only son among the family’s three children, the only brother to two sisters, and the youngest in the family.
David Jalilov studied at the 3rd Khudat City Secondary School named after Karim Maharramov from 2010 to 2021. Since childhood, during his school years, David had a great interest in various sports and music. He achieved many accomplishments, often winning first place and being awarded medals. Due to his exemplary behavior and academic performance, his photo was placed on the honor roll. His cheerful personality and sincerity earned him respect among teachers and students. He also attended music school for seven years, specializing in piano, and graduated with a distinction diploma.
During military training exercises held by his instructor at school, David was consistently recognized as an excellent marksman and always earned first place. During the Patriotic War, 16-year-old David applied to the military enlistment office as a volunteer, but was advised to wait due to his age. His greatest dream was to see the liberation of our lands from occupation, and he was always ready to fight for the homeland.
After graduating from school and turning 18, David was called up for military service on April 1, 2022, and served as a gunner in the commando reconnaissance unit. After participating in training for three months in Ganja, he began active duty in Goranboy. His exemplary service, bravery in battle, and deep love for the homeland made him a favorite among soldiers and commanders alike. Even though the training was tough, David always showed perseverance and was at the forefront.
During the Revenge Operation from September 12 to 14, 2022, David fought bravely for the first time in the direction of Kalbajar’s Jermuk, helping evacuate wounded soldiers and displaying great heroism. David also volunteered for a two-month sniper course in Shamkir, becoming a precise sniper. During his leave, he told his mother: "If I survive, I'll be a hero, if I die, I'll be a martyr."
On September 19, 2023, the Azerbaijani Army launched a localized anti-terror operation, and David joined the battle with his fellow soldiers. The well-fortified enemy positions on the heights had to be captured at any cost. During the fierce fighting, David, though wounded, helped evacuate many wounded soldiers and continued to push forward. He was not one to hide at the back, but rather fought alongside his commanders like a fierce wolf.
On the night of September 19-20, he heroically defended his position, and during the capture of enemy positions on September 20, in the Papravend-Agdere direction, David was martyred when enemy shells struck nearby. At the age of 19, with a smile on his face, David gave his life for his country.
No one is born a hero. One's environment, the times they live in, and the events around them shape them. A land watered by the blood of martyrs is sacred to us. True patriotism belongs to those who love their homeland with all their heart and are ready to fight for its freedom and independence at any moment, even sacrificing their lives if necessary. David, although unable to become a police officer as he dreamed, fought and defeated the enemy as a soldier.
For his courage during the battles for the restoration of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity, David Jalilov was posthumously awarded the 3rd Degree Order "For Service to the Homeland" and the "For the Homeland" medal by decree of President Ilham Aliyev.