Natalia, the mother of the fallen Ukrainian pilot, Hero of Ukraine Stepan Tarabalka, joined the corps of Ukrainian military chaplains.
The woman’s appeal was published by the head of the corps, Oleksandr Kazakov, on Friday, April 26.
“After my son’s death, I realized that the main support at this time is the presence of God in one’s life. That’s why I decided to join the work of military chaplains,” the woman said.
She added that she gained some experience and knowledge in chaplaincy so she “wants to be useful not only for families, but also for the military and veterans.”
“I want to convey the importance of faith in God and openness in communicating with God, despite our challenging circumstances,” Tarabalka added.
On April 29, The Times reported with reference to “Ukrainian sources” that the Ghost of Kyiv, which allegedly shot down more than 40 Russian warplanes, was killed in action. The newspaper identified the mysterious pilot as a 29-year-old Air Force Major, Stepan Tarabalka.
The Air Force Command refuted that report, clarifying that the Ghost of Kyiv is the collective image of the 40th Air Force Tactical Aviation Brigade, which protects the sky over the capital.
Stepan Tarabalka was killed in air combat on March 13, 2022. The pilot was posthumously awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine and the Golden Star.
