“This is my country. I protect it and will stand to the end,” says Myron, a serviceman of the 2nd Galician Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine. Currently, he and his comrades are defending positions on the Pokrovsk frontline. Myron joined conscription service in 2021 and signed a contract to stay in the military after the full-scale invasion began.
The guardsman explains that the enemy spares neither equipment nor manpower in their attempts to capture Ukrainian positions. In some cases, attacks continued for more than a week, with wave after wave of “meat assaults” aimed at exhausting Ukrainian defenders.
One night, Myron noticed five flashlights moving in the darkness toward their position. He immediately reported it to his command and received confirmation that it was the enemy. He was given the order to open fire.
“I probably emptied ten magazines,” Myron recalls. “The attackers retreated, and our unit returned to cover, waiting for artillery support.”
Myron admits he doesn’t feel fear in such moments. “I knew what I was signing up for and was prepared for it. There’s a lot of adrenaline; everything happens automatically,” he says.
The guardsman emphasizes that quality training is crucial for effective performance on the front line. He and his comrades underwent thorough preparation, including training in low-visibility conditions, carrying full gear for days, and enduring exhausting marches.
“Endurance, physical fitness, and belief in victory help us during prolonged battles on the frontlines. When heading into battle, I think only about reaching the position quickly and avoiding enemy fire. Before every fight, I have a ritual – prayer. I pray to return alive to my loved ones. I stay strong because I know my parents, wife, and family are waiting for me at home,” Myron shares.
Despite the challenges of combat, Ukrainian defenders hold the line effectively. According to Myron, the key to their resilience is the coordination and teamwork between various units.
“Our aerial reconnaissance, artillery, and mortars work very well. FPV drones and ‘vampires’ are a big help. But the most important thing is communication between units. Without clear interaction, we couldn’t coordinate our actions or respond to threats in time.”
Myron assures that he is ready to fight as long as it takes for Ukraine to achieve victory. For him, this fight is not just for himself but for the loved ones waiting for him at home.