Captain Serhiy Muzyka: A Daring Helicopter Rescue in…

Captain Serhiy Muzyka recounts a perilous UN rescue mission in South Sudan, where a routine operation escalated into a gunfight. Despite being shot, he expertly navigated a damaged helicopter to safety, although fellow crew member Sergii Prykhodko succumbed to his injuries. This incident highlights ongoing tensions in South Sudan and the challenges faced by peacekeepers.

Captain Serhiy Muzyka, a seasoned helicopter pilot from Ukraine, found himself in extraordinary circumstances during a recent UN mission in South Sudan. Aiming to evacuate injured soldiers, his operation quickly escalated into chaos as gunfire erupted, leading to a tragic shoot-out. Despite enduring gunfire, including being shot in the arm, Captain Muzyka skillfully managed to steer his damaged helicopter to safety. This mission became the most dramatic of his extensive career, which included service in Afghanistan and multiple dangerous rescue operations as a private contractor.

The UN helicopter crew had been summoned to extract wounded soldiers from the military base in Nasir, South Sudan, where escalating tensions had already been evident. The ongoing conflict, sparked by deep-seated distrust between the forces aligned with President Salva Kiir and Vice-President Riek Machar, added considerable risk to their mission. Over the years, the fragile peace in South Sudan has been threatened by ethnic discord and military maneuvers.

Tensions surged after an attempt to rotate troops led to conflict between the White Army militia, loyal to Machar, and the regular armed forces. When the helicopter crew returned after a successful initial extraction, gunfire suddenly erupted, complicating their efforts. Captain Muzyka immediately recognized the gravity of the situation upon realizing he had sustained an injury and upon witnessing his flight attendant being shot.

During the harrowing moments under attack, Captain Muzyka’s extensive military training took over. He performed an emergency take-off amid the chaos, narrowly avoiding disaster as rounds continued to strike his helicopter. With substantial damage to the aircraft, including punctured fuel tanks, he focused on reaching the nearest airport by flying as low and fast as possible. His crew members provided critical support, tending to his wounds while also observing potential emergency landing sites.

As the helicopter approached Malakal airport, the crew faced further challenges, with the front wheel compromised. Nevertheless, Captain Muzyka successfully landed the aircraft, bringing everyone to safety, despite the tragic loss of their colleague. Following this rescue, the UN acknowledged the crew’s bravery, awarding them with the UN medal of honour, emphasizing the gravity of the attack.

Now back home in Ukraine, Captain Muzyka reflects on the trauma experienced by his team—including the loss of Mr. Prykhodko—and expresses a desire for global conflicts to resolve peacefully. Though considering retirement, he maintains a youthful outlook, inspired by his lifelong passion for aviation and the commitment to his profession.

Captain Serhiy Muzyka’s extraordinary experience during a UN rescue operation in South Sudan illustrates both the perils faced by peacekeepers in conflict zones and the resilience of those who serve. Despite enduring gunfire and sustaining injuries, his leadership and adept skills ensured the survival of those on board, although tragic loss marred the mission. The incident underscores the ongoing tensions in South Sudan, as well as the complexities surrounding international peacekeeping efforts in regions rife with conflict.

Original Source: www.bbc.com