Inowrocław 2009-03-03
The tragedy of the Mi-24 helicopter crew on 02/27/2009.
The tragic disaster took place near Inowrocław, on February 27, 2009, in the late evening hours. During the program of aviation training with the use of combat means, after entering the combat-attack course, in preparation for participation in the next mission abroad, in Afghanistan, the Mi-24 helicopter piloted by the crew consisting of: crew commander - Capt. pil. Marcin GWIZDOWSKI, operator pilot - lieutenant pil. Robert WAGNER, deck technician - junior staff member Wojciech WOJCIECHOWSKI, the helicopter collapsed in the forest within the "Toruń training ground". Mr. Robert did not survive the tragic collision. The other two crew members were slightly injured.
This cold and laconic information, which usually appears in the media, carries the pain and sadness of loved ones, friends, colleagues, the entire community of the 49th Combat Helicopter Regiment, as well as a large part of the inhabitants of Pruszcz Gdański, associated with aviation for decades and all who Polish Wings are no stranger.
Aviators say that risk is a part of their dangerous service, but no one and no one will ever accept that the price of that risk may be one's own life. However, this was the price that was paid by Mr. Robert.
Mr. Robert Wagner was born on January 19, 1977 in Łęczyca in a family with military traditions. His father, Andrzej, was an experienced and outstanding parachute jumper. In 1997, Mr. Robert entered the Air Force Academy, after which he graduated as a pilot operator of Mi-24 helicopters and joined the 49th combat helicopter regiment. Twice in 2005 and 2007, as a senior pilot in the attack helicopter squadron, he took part in the 4th and 8th rotation of the Polish Military Contingent in Iraq, gaining vast experience, recognition and respect of his colleagues and superiors. He spent over 700 hours at the controls of the helicopter. He participated in many training camps and field exercises, in which he proved his artistry, high training and vast experience.
Mr. Robert also had his normal private life; wife Joanna, and also son Matthew. It is the family that we wish to wish for the protection of Jesus Christ and faith, before the passage of time brings relief, but does not erase the tragic memories.
The funeral of Mr. Robert Wagner took place on March 5, 2009 at the airport in Pruszcz Gdański. The mortal remains are laid to rest in Legionowo at the parish cemetery. Honor his memory.
Written by Karol Placha Hetman