"NACHFIN"

He distinguished himself during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and was named a Hero of Ukraine, receiving the Order of the Gold Star. For five years leading the unit, he was never once on leave. He set three world records at Ironman events in the United States. A group led by Navy Captain 2nd Rank Mykola Nikonov carried out a daring special operation in occupied Novoazovsk, going 70 km behind enemy lines and destroying the occupiers’ military stockpiles. During 12 days of heroic defense of Mariupol, his unit destroyed six pieces of military equipment and about 50 enemy personnel. Mykola Nikonov directed the unit’s movement to a safer section of the defensive line and remained to cover the unit until the very end. He was killed heroically under enemy MLRS fire while evacuating a group that had fallen into encirclement. Words from @navy_amer ⤵️ Commander, you were a mentor and a father to all of us!!! Your feats and achievements always inspired us!!! We know you are watching over us from the heavens!!! We will never forget and never forgive!!! Forever in our hearts!!! Naval SEALs do not die! They go to Heaven to regroup—because they have already been to hell!!