Episode 38 of Freedom Flights sees the return to Chayka Field of an unexpected supporter with some new recruits, and who is met by a character who will remain forever. There’s also a hint or two about events in the next episode.
I will continue trying to foreshadow future incidents without making my characters react as if they know what will happen in 2025.
Until a just and lasting peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write more episodes, never forgetting the brave people fighting for freedom, with too many losing their lives. Let’s pray Western aid and weapons continue to reach the country, despite what some leaders threaten. Assistance must arrive on time to change their fortunes and prepare for the genuine peace that must come soon.
Each day, I worry about the Middle East conflict escalating, not only because it could threaten many of us globally, but also as it would shift the attention and support away from Ukraine, when peace negotiations could be achievable.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page via the left-hand sidebar.
Episode 38 – Eagle’s Flight
2024
Wednesday, October 9th – Zvenigora Restaurant, Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Teniente Adelita Palomo grinned as she finished reading on her cellphone and handed it to her friend, Capitán Conchita Gutiérrez.
“Check out your guy’s feature on Ukrainian medevacs in Vuelo del Águila. As you expected, it’s excellent, and he suggests that readers with expertise volunteer, especially those who speak Ukrainian.”
Conchita took the phone and checked out the article by Aaron Garcia.
“As you say, ‘excellent’ and accurate. Not only does he mention the Night Witches, but he also sneaks us in by mentioning ‘the defensive role of Tiger Charlie flown by pilot, Capitán Gutiérrez & her co-pilot, Teniente Palomo’. We need to make a translation from Spanish for everyone else.”
She waved Major Kalyna Chayka over and explained the invaluable coverage to her and their plan to translate it.
“Good idea,” said Kalyna, after she’d scanned the piece. “I only know enough Spanish to now want to read your translation. Let me have it as soon as you can, and we’ll ensure everyone can see it. And not just our medevac team.”
“A couple in the squadron understand Spanish,” said Adelita. “We’ll let them know so they can spread the news.”
Shortly after Kalyna returned to the group she had come from, Mariyka Shevchuk announced the evening’s film from beside the restaurant’s screen.
“Tonight, we are screening two documentaries from the Ukrainian director, Alisa Kovalenko, starting with ‘We Will Not Fade Away’, a study of five Ukrainian teens and their brief escape from war on an expedition to the Himalayas. Filming took three years from 2019, mainly in Donbas, until the Russian invasion changed everything. Alisa went to fight on the front lines for four months before completing this documentary, then turned new footage from the frontlines into the film ‘My Dear Theo’, a video diary for her young son, which is our second screening after a brief interval.”
Mariyka paused before continuing, “ In 2023, Alisa said the first documentary ‘is not about the expedition, it’s not about the mountains or adventure therapy, it’s actually about the power of dreams and how you can still believe in your dreams when you are living in this kind of depressing place that isn’t very friendly to you and isn’t helping you to realise your goals. But you keep believing, and you put a lot of light in the middle of the darkness”.
The lights dimmed, and ‘We Will Not Fade Away’ started.
**
Monday, October 21st – Diplomatic Academy of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
The room in the Academy was packed for the speech by US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, who was visiting Ukraine for the fourth time. This visit was crucial amid some Russian battlefield gains and with the imminent US election in two weeks. Everyone was aware that if Donald Trump were elected president, he had already suggested that he would be more reluctant than President Biden to continue to support Ukraine, as he had promised to end the war swiftly, potentially on terms favourable to Moscow. This would deprive Kyiv of its most powerful military and financial backer.
Five of the Night Witches’ supportive journalists were seated together near the rear behind all the university students, professors, and government representatives.
“Can Lloyd Astin reassure Ukrainians that the US will continue its support?” asked Darina Kearney. “Or are his hands tied?”
“I’d guess the impending election will temper what he says,” said her sister, Clodagh, co-host of the Canadian podcast Kearney Encounter.
“Most likely,” added Jane Wetherby, with her Anglo-Canadian perspective. “However, I believe he’ll make veiled references to ongoing US support.”
“While praising the ongoing bravery and ingenuity of Ukrainians,” concluded Carita Forsström, reporting for Swedish Aero News.
Some late arrivals sneaked in quietly, including a familiar but unexpected colleague. Spanish journalist Aaron Garcia noticed and managed to obtain a seat next to them.
“I’ll explain later why I’m back in Ukraine… after Lloyd Austin has spoken.”
Hennadii Nadolenko, the Director of the Academy, introduced the US Defence Secretary, who then began his speech, thanking the Director and others who had made his visit possible. He said he would talk about Ukraine’s just war of self-defence and the road ahead, telling those who doubted the truth behind the struggle to ‘come to Kyiv’.
He continued by saying one must not forget how the war began.
“For years, Putin had harassed and assaulted the independent nation-state of Ukraine. On February 24, 2022, Putin crossed the line into an all-out invasion. And the Kremlin started the largest war in Europe since World War II. Now, Putin’s war of choice poses fundamental questions to every government and every person who seeks a decent and secure world.”
After posing and answering the questions, Lloyd Austin emphasised the importance of America and allies in supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression, with clear results as he explained.
“Now, this invasion hasn’t gone the way that the Kremlin planned. After 970 days of war, Putin has not achieved one single strategic objective. Not one. President Zelenskyy didn’t flee. Kyiv didn’t fall. And Ukraine didn’t fold.”
The five colleagues nodded as he addressed the immense price Russia had paid, especially in terms of lives. But he also emphasised the cruel cost for Ukraine.
“Now, Ukraine has suffered terribly at Putin’s hands. Since February 2022, according to the U.N., Russian forces have killed more than 11,000 Ukrainian civilians in verified civilian casualty incidents. And that includes more than 600 children. The U.N. says that Putin’s forces have bombed more than 250 Ukrainian schools and hospitals. And they’ve wrecked treasured sites of Ukrainian history, culture, and memory. But the Kremlin’s malice has not broken Ukraine’s spirit. Ukraine stands unbowed — and strengthened.”
When he finished describing Ukrainian resistance, and added that, “Ukraine’s defenders have brought inspiration to the world — and glory to Ukraine”, the audience responded enthusiastically.
‘Slava Ukraini!’
Once the shouts of the salute had died down, Lloyd Austin spoke about what America and the coalition of 50 countries in the Ukraine Defence Contact Group were doing to oppose Putin’s aggression.
“For anyone who thinks that American leadership is expensive — well, consider the price of American retreat,” he said after talking about the 58 billion dollars spent since February 2022. “In the face of aggression, the price of principle is always dwarfed by the cost of capitulation. Our allies and partners know that. And I’ve been proud to watch the pro-Ukraine coalition dig deep.”
Knowing how the Night Witches were themselves a coalition of various nationalities, the five colleagues nodded in agreement, especially as Austin outlined the support from various countries.
He emphasised the urgency of the situation, culminating in adding, “I know that the Kremlin’s war is a nightmare from which the Ukrainian people are trying to awake. But we should all understand that Putin’s assault is a warning. It is a sneak preview of a world built by tyrants and thugs — a chaotic, violent world carved into spheres of influence; a world where bullies trample their smaller neighbors; and a world where aggressors force free people to live in fear.”
As Jane Wetherby had predicted, the Defence Secretary explained America’s position.
“And make no mistake. The United States does not seek war with Russia. And even as Putin makes profoundly reckless and dangerous threats about nuclear war, we will continue to behave with the responsibility that the world rightly demands of a nuclear-armed state.
So, the United States will uphold our sworn NATO obligations. The United States will defend every inch of NATO territory. And the United States will get Ukraine what it needs to fight for its survival and security.”
The audience applauded, and when the clapping subsided, he focused on the central defenders, saying, “Ukraine does not belong to Putin. Ukraine belongs to the Ukrainian people. And Moscow will never prevail in Ukraine.”
Building to a fitting climax.
“Ukraine has chosen the course of courage. And so have we. My friends, you walk a hard road. But you do not walk it alone. Thank you. God bless you. And may God bless all who fight to defend freedom.”
Lloyd Austin’s speech was received with a standing ovation and enthusiastic cheering.
*
After obtaining some additional interviews with key participants, the five journalists found a coffee shop near the Academy. Once they had drinks and snacks, they found a table where they could discuss Lloyd Austin’s address.
“A welcome contribution, but it won’t relieve our Ukrainian forces’ needs during a drawn-out conflict on multiple fronts,” replied Clodagh Kearney. “Darina and I will analyse that in our next podcast.”
Her sister nodded and then added, “Kearney Encounter will be expected to express an opinion before the election… probably live from Kyiv. If any of you would like to be guests, our followers would find your viewpoint fascinating.”
At first, nobody volunteered, but they all nodded in agreement. After a silence filled with drinking and munching, Carita Forsström spoke up.
“It would make a change for me. Count on my appearance. It offers me a different challenge from writing online articles for Swedish Aero News. Normally, I can perfect the pieces before submitting. And recording Austin’s presentation gives me time to assess what he said.”
“You mean like this quote,” said Jane, playing an extract:
‘America’s security demands that we stand up to Putin’s aggression. Ukraine matters to U.S. security for four blunt reasons. Putin’s war threatens European security. Putin’s war challenges our NATO allies. Putin’s war attacks our shared values. And Putin’s war is a frontal assault on the rules-based international order that keeps us all safe.’
“Exactly,” said Carita. “That alone answers all those who question why the West must support Ukraine.”
“Too many politicians spout Russia’s lies,” said Aaron Garcia. “That’s what I was trying to do with my Spanish readers. As a result of my first article, there were invaluable responses. I’m going to Poland tomorrow but will return shortly… possibly to our favourite squadron.”
Everyone grinned, and Jane said, “I will probably see you there then, as I’m going to that base with Carita. When we were told, ‘Ukrainian factories are now pumping out some of the best UAVs in the world, and experienced Ukrainian air defenders are protecting their forces and their families,’ I remembered our innovative and brave Night Witches.”
**
Saturday, October 26th – Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Sergeant Marusya Dudziarz drove the base’s minibus around to the rear of the main building. Her four passengers climbed out and were greeted by First Lieutenants Andżelika and Estera Sówka, and Chief Paramedic Osinniy.
Aaron Garcia embraced the trio before introducing his three compatriots.
“As emailed to you, Andżelika, these Spanish ladies are the volunteers for the Night Witches.” In turn, he introduced them: “Katiuska Rebeca Meléndez and her K9, Treka, are an experienced search and rescue team. Aitana Salcedo and Jacinta Garcia are qualified paramedics. There were three male volunteers, so I found them a posting with your former battalion, Osinniy.”
“Smart move,” said the Chief Paramedic. “Especially if they’re experienced.”
“The majors said to meet in the canteen,” said Marusya. “There may be others there, not on duty… like those back from dawn patrols.”
*
Lieutenant Polina Moroz was waiting for Marusya when they arrived in the canteen.
“Was driving the bus a relaxing change from co-piloting our Tiger?”
“No way. Lutsk gets busy when the train from Poland gets in. Flying there’s no aerial traffic, unless you count Russian missiles and drones on the night shift.”
Everyone chuckled.
Aaron noted that the Chayka majors had entered and were gesturing at a large table that was free.
“Do you want to join us, Marusya… Polina?”
“No thanks,” said Polina. “We need to eat quickly and then run our pre-flight checks before this evening’s patrol.”
The others joined Kalyna and Vasy at the large table, and Aaron introduced the new volunteers as they sat down.
“You’ve done us proud, Aaron,” said Kalyna. “We shouldn’t be surprised after your inspirational article in Vuelo del Águila.”
Jacinta hugged him enthusiastically, kissing him on the cheeks.
At that moment, Capitán Conchita Gutiérrez appeared in the doorway with her co-pilot Teniente Adelita Palomo. Conchita glowered at Aaron as he kissed the younger woman.
She stormed over and slapped Aaron. Then she turned to Jacinta and screamed.
“Who are you to be molesting my man. You didn’t expect me to turn up so soon…”
“I’m his sister, Jacinta… and a volunteer paramedic. You must be the fearless Conchita. My brother talks about you all the time.”
The pilot looked stunned and unsure how to respond. Aaron saved her by explaining.
“Judged understandably by my past behaviour. Please, trust me next time and believe when I say this is my only sister. Our other siblings are all macho brothers.” He turned to the majors. “Any key developments since I left last month?”
The cousins glanced at each other, and Vasy answered.
“On the day you left, Thursday, September 26th, Nadia Lysenko escaped from Kursk with Dasha Isakova in a captured Russian fighter jet. Another French helicopter pilot with Ukrainian ancestry, Lieutenant Cateline Ivanova, joined us. Otherwise, the training on NATO jets continues at Dęblin in Poland-”
“And the Russians continue to launch missiles, rockets, and drones incessantly almost every night, and often in the day,” added Kalyna. “Of course, they claim they’re targeting military objectives, despite hitting mainly civilian targets. Meanwhile, we need to develop our defensive strategy. Our jets can only leapfrog between bases when they’re not hidden here.”
Jane Wetherby and Carita Forsström came into the canteen, chatting to some ground crew. They left their chat when they saw the Spanish gathering and headed over.
“Now we understand, Aaron, why you came here via Poland,” said Jane. “At least, you seem to be justified in not joining us for the Kearney Encounter.”
He allowed the volunteers to introduce themselves after he’d told them who Jane and Carita worked for.
As the canteen filled with pilots and ground crew, many came over to thank Aaron for the article in Vuelo del Águila, which had been translated into Ukrainian and English. Nadia Lysenko and Aleks Górski were among the last and pulled up chairs to join the group.
“I’m so glad you made it back, Nadia,” said Aaron. “I worried about you and the others in Kursk when the rumours about ruthless North Koreans arriving in Russia began to circulate.”
“I only encountered vicious Russians,” replied Nadia. “However, Ukrainian military intelligence officially proved the rumours as fact on Wednesday. The first North Korean soldiers should be deployed in Kursk Oblast over this weekend.”
“I pray our forces continue to hold ground captured around Sudzha,” said Aleks. “We need the ongoing morale boost in the current climate.”
Everyone agreed in gestures and words. Then the Spanish recruits discussed their duties with the officers while the journalists aired their fears about the November 5th U.S. presidential vote.
“I fear the former Republican president, Donald Trump, being re-elected,” said Jane. “From both a Canadian and a European perspective, he proved dangerous in his first term.”
“It’s proving to be a closer race than expected,” said Aaron. “Even after President Biden withdrew, making Vice President Kamala Harris the Democratic candidate. After hearing their Defence Secretary lay out the Administration’s strategy for Ukraine, her election should be best for Ukraine and Europe.”
“Especially as Trump was antagonistic towards NATO last time, calling it ‘obsolete’. He might be claiming to end this war in 24 hours, but in whose favour?” asked Carita. “Moscow’s? Russia is already interfering in our elections. Will Moldova keep its pro-West president on November 3rd? Will Trump be inaugurated in January?
“He blames NATO countries for expecting the US to defend them,” said Jane. “Although some of those, such as Britain, Canada, Germany, Poland, and France, fought alongside the US in the Global War on Terrorism.”
“That was a global military campaign started by the Republican Bush Administration following the September 11 attacks in 2001,” said Nadia. “I had friends from the French forces in Afghanistan, some of whom lost friends, even partners. Let’s pray this war doesn’t escalate… although the casualties are already too horrific.”
The table went quiet, and the silence spread as everyone knew someone who had given their life for Ukraine’s peace and freedom.
**
MPA target 2,780 Words
Slava Ukraini
Heroiam slava!
We Will Not Fade Away:
*
Speech by US Defence Secretary, Lloyd Austin in Kyiv on October 21st, 2024: https://ua.usembassy.gov/remarks-in-kyiv-by-secretary-of-defense-lloyd-j-austin-iii-on-ukraines-fight-for-freedom/
Austin Makes Surprise Visit to Ukraine with a Focus on Air Defence:
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