The President of Ukraine has posthumously awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine to Colonel Valentyn Korenchuk, known by his call sign “Bdzholiar.” The pilot lost his life during a combat mission on April 27, 2024.
This announcement was made by the Ukrainian Air Force Command, as reported by RBC-Ukraine.
Who Was “Bdzholiar”?
Colonel Korenchuk served as the commander of the 40th Tactical Aviation Brigade, famously known as the “Ghost of Kyiv.” From the onset of the full-scale invasion, he engaged in aerial combat during the Battle of Kyiv, completing five combat sorties on the first day alone.
Throughout his service, he:
- Conducted over 80 combat sorties, with 73 aimed at destroying enemy equipment and providing cover for troops;
- Spent nearly 300 hours in the air;
- Personally destroyed numerous enemy targets, including aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones.
The Impossible Maneuver
One of the most notable incidents involved “Bdzholiar” causing a Russian Su-25 attack aircraft to crash on the outskirts of Kyiv solely through maneuvering, without firing a single shot.
Contribution to Aviation Development
Korenchuk was among the first to master and deploy the French AASM-250 HAMMER missiles in combat. He actively advocated for the transition of Ukrainian aviation to Western aircraft, particularly the F-16, and represented Ukraine in discussions with delegations from France, Poland, and Japan.
Beyond the Cockpit
Outside of his flying duties, the colonel conducted “lessons of courage” for schoolchildren and supported the families of fallen and injured soldiers. His efforts led to the establishment of museum exhibitions in Kyiv and the well-known mural of the “Ghost of Kyiv” in Podil.
Colonel Valentyn Korenchuk was killed on April 27, 2024. He is survived by his wife and three children.
Colonel Valentyn Korenchuk, a prominent Ukrainian pilot, has been posthumously honored with the title of Hero of Ukraine after his death during a combat mission. His contributions to aviation and support for the community have left a lasting impact.