Probable F-16 Catastrophe: Pilot Oleksiy Mes Died After Shooting Down Three Missiles and an Aggressor Drone.
Death of Pilot Oleksiy Mes
On Thursday, August 29, 2024, the Command of the Air Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine officially confirmed the death of pilot Oleksiy Mes during a combat mission. The tragic event occurred on August 26, when the pilot was participating in repelling a massive Russian missile and air strike.
According to the command, Lieutenant Colonel Mes in his last battle shot down three cruise missiles and one strike drone, saving the lives of many Ukrainians. Unfortunately, this heroic mission cost him his own life.
Unparalleled Pilot and Leader
Oleksiy Mes was not only a top-class pilot but also a respected leader among his colleagues and subordinates. He was only 30 years old, born on October 20, 1993, in Lutsk. Before the fatal flight, Oleksiy held the position of squadron support commander and deputy commander of the operational group.
Honoring the Hero
On August 29, a farewell ceremony for the hero took place. Hundreds of people, including fellow pilots, commanders, subordinates, friends, and ordinary Ukrainians, came to pay their respects to the fallen pilot. During the ceremony, a pair of MiG-29 fighters piloted by Oleksiy's combat friends performed an honorary flyover above the procession.
High Posthumous Recognition
By the order of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksiy Mes was posthumously awarded the rank of Colonel.
Death of Oleksiy Mes and F-16 Crash
It is worth noting that the death of Oleksiy Mes coincided with reports of an F-16 fighter jet crash in Ukraine. According to The Wall Street Journal, on August 26, the first American F-16 crashed in Ukraine during a massive Russian bombardment.
Relentless Fight for Freedom
The Command of the Air Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine emphasizes that the loss of Oleksiy Mes, though painful, will not lessen the determination of Ukrainian soldiers in their fight for the freedom and independence of Ukraine.
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