Military pensioner Ruslan Mazunov: the story of the pilot who returned to duty and died in 2014

Life and service of Ruslan Mazunov

According to Главком: Military pensioner Ruslan Mazunov left a bright mark in the history of the Ukrainian army, dying during the Russo-Ukrainian war. He was born on January 26, 1979, in the village of Mykhailychka in the Shepetivka district of the Khmelnytskyi region, and was mobilized for military service on March 21, 2014. Ruslan Mazunov served as a flight technician in the helicopter unit of the 16th separate brigade of army aviation of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Unfortunately, Ruslan died on June 24, 2014, near the village of Novoselivka in the Sloviansk district of Donetsk region while performing a combat mission. His helicopter was hit by a missile from a portable surface-to-air missile system (MANPADS). For his bravery and dedication, Ruslan Mazunov was posthumously awarded the Order of Bohdan Khmelnytskyi of the III degree.

Memory and commemoration

Ruslan Mazunov retired in 2011 after his years of service, but his love for service and duty led him to return to duty during critical times for the country. In Brody, where he found eternal rest, an Alley of Glory was opened in honor of fallen pilots. Also, in honor of Ruslan, a street was named in Shepetivka, and in 2017 a stone cross was established at the site of the crew's death.

'For me, he is the best son, kind, caring. He will live in my soul. The helicopters of his comrades fly over the village - it seems to me that it is Ruslan. I believe that he will return.' Nadiya Ivanivna, mother of Ruslan Mazunov

The death of Ruslan Mazunov is a vivid example of the selflessness and patriotism of Ukrainian servicemen, who, even after retirement, are ready to return to service in times of war. His memory is honored not only through erected monuments but also through the living memories of loved ones who continue to honor his contribution to the defense of the country. These events highlight the importance of remembering heroes who gave their lives for the independence of Ukraine and the need to support their families in times of grief and loss.