“Sergii loved life, and not only his own. That is why he became a rescuer, a great rescuer, and instructor. He saved many lives during his professional path and gave his life saving others. He is in our minds. He is in our hearts.”

This was the heartfelt, emotional tribute from Chief Pilot, Sergy Kostyuk, at a memorial service for his fallen colleague, Sergii Prykhodko, who was killed when a UN helicopter was attacked in conflict-affected Nasir, Upper Nile State, on 7 March 2025.

As a member of a Ukrainian aviation team contracted by UNMISS, Mr. Prykhodko flew into Nasir on an evacuation mission to help prevent further violence and de-escalate tensions which had the potential to spill over into other parts of the country. The operation was undertaken at the request of all parties and with safety assurances.

Despite this, the team encountered heavy fire while on the ground. In addition to the loss of Mr. Prykhodko, two of his colleagues suffered serious injuries.

“We recognize with sadness and admiration Sergii’s selfless devotion and dedication to the advancement of peace in South Sudan and elsewhere,” said UNMISS’ Director of Mission Support, Victoria Browning. “We also have the utmost respect for his colleagues who, under fire in a damaged aircraft, managed through sheer willpower and courage to save the lives of others who surely would have been killed as well.”

Speaking on behalf of the Private Joint Stock Aviation Company Ukrainian helicopters, Deputy Chief Executive for Aviation Security, Andrii Fedorenko described Mr. Prykhodko’s passion for flying as his “true calling”.

As a crew member, he had amassed more than 3,500 hours of flying time and been involved in 50 rescue missions in conflict hotspots, including South Sudan, Mali and Somalia.

“His dream was to become a pilot of large aircrafts. Last year, he received training so that he could achieve that goal,” said Mr. Fedorenko. “We have lost our friend, and we lost a colleague. We express our sincere condolences to his family and friends. He will remain in our hearts as a wonderful person and professional. May he rest in peace,” said Mr. Fedorenko.

At the memorial ceremony, the crew that flew on that fateful day were awarded the United Nations Medal of Honor for their bravery and dedication to duty. Mr. Prykhodko’s sacrifice was also remembered by hundreds of colleagues who signed a condolence book in his memory.

“Mr. Pyrkhodko volunteered to fly on the mission because of his significant experience. This act of courage and professionalism touches all our hearts,” said the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, Nicholas Haysom. “We will never forget Sergii’s example and his sacrifice. He will forever remain in our hearts.”