In a remarkable display of courage, Captain Serhiy Muzyka of Ukrainian Helicopters undertook a life-threatening mission in South Sudan to evacuate injured soldiers amid gunfire, leading to a tragic loss but also highlighting the dire challenges and complexities of ongoing military tensions in the region.
Ukrainian Helicopter Pilot's Heroic Rescue Under Fire in South Sudan
Ukrainian Helicopter Pilot's Heroic Rescue Under Fire in South Sudan
Captain Serhiy Muzyka recalls a harrowing helicopter mission in South Sudan, where he faced gunfire while rescuing injured soldiers, illustrating the dangers of ongoing conflicts.
Captain Serhiy Muzyka, a 60-year-old Ukrainian helicopter pilot, recently faced one of the most harrowing moments of his career while conducting a UN mission in South Sudan. This event, which he described as "like a movie," turned into a desperate rescue operation when a peaceful evacuation of wounded soldiers escalated into a dangerous gunfight. With 43 years of flying experience, including service in the Soviet army and deployment to war zones like Afghanistan, Muzyka was well-prepared for high-stress situations—but nothing could prepare him for this day.
On March 4, while attempting to evacuate six injured soldiers, including a general, Muzyka's helicopter came under fire at a military base in Upper Nile state. Moments after they started boarding, chaos erupted as gunfire erupted from multiple directions. It all happened so fast that Muzyka was unaware of his own injury until he saw blood seeping from his arm. Tragically, his flight attendant, Sergii Prykhodko, who stood near a UN negotiator, was fatally wounded.
Muzyka, adhering to his military training, immediately initiated take-off as enemy fire continued to strike the helicopter. The damage was severe, with the aircraft sustaining multiple bullet holes and critical failures. During the risky flight to Malakal airport, Muzyka flew as low as possible, aiming for emergency landing spots as needed. His situation was exacerbated when the front wheel of the helicopter got blocked, but he persevered and miraculously landed safely after 49 tense minutes in the air.
Upon arrival, the crew received medical assistance, but sadly, Prykhodko succumbed to his injuries. The terrorist act not only resulted in a tragic loss but raised concerns about the deteriorating security situation in South Sudan, plagued by distrust between government and rebel forces. The UN head of mission stated the attack could potentially be classified as a war crime.
For Muzyka, the mission was marked by high emotion. Although he plans to retire, he finds purpose in flying and hopes for a world where "common sense will prevail." Meanwhile, the lingering anxiety for family members affected by conflicts back home persists, casting a shadow over the valor displayed during his recent mission. Despite the trauma, the crew was awarded the UN medal of honor, recognizing their bravery in the face of overwhelming danger.
