His Eminence Cardinal Mykola Bychok Prayed at the Grave of an Australian Soldier Who Gave His Life for Ukraine
On 1 August 2026, during his pastoral visit to Ukraine, Mykola Cardinal Bychok visited the Alley of Heroes at the cemetery in the village of Chukalivka near Ivano-Frankivsk. There, he prayed at the grave of Australian volunteer Samuel Michael Pedrazzini, who was killed while defending Ukraine against russian aggression.
His Eminence came to honour a son of Australia who sacrificed his life for the freedom and independence of the Ukrainian people, and to commend his soul to God in prayer.
Samuel Michael Pedrazzini was born in Lismore, Australia. After serving in the Australian Army, including with the Royal Australian Infantry, he offered his military and medical expertise in support of Ukraine. He first served as an instructor training Ukrainian soldiers in the United Kingdom, and later travelled to Ukraine as a volunteer medic. In time, Samuel chose to join the Armed Forces of Ukraine, continuing his service as a combat medic with the 3 rd Separate Special Purpose Regiment of the Special Operations Forces.
Remembered for his professionalism, selflessness, and deep love for Ukraine, Samuel not only sought to help the Ukrainian people but also envisioned building his future in this country. His comrades recall him as a highly skilled soldier, a man of great courage, and someone profoundly committed to serving others.
On 13 June 2026, Samuel Michael Pedrazzini was killed while carrying out a combat mission in the Donetsk region. In accordance with his wishes, he was laid to rest in Ukraine, at the Alley of Heroes near Ivano-Frankivsk.
While praying at his grave, Cardinal Mykola also remembered all foreign volunteers who did not remain indifferent to the suffering of the Ukrainian people, who stood in defence of Ukraine, and who offered the greatest sacrifice of all — their own lives.
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