Thread by @dim0kq

I just finished my basic training course in the Ukrainian Army!

That was an adventure, however it prepared me for the real fight against r*ssian invasion.

This is how Ukraine trains its soldiers 🧵

We lived in tents in an undisclosed location, deep in the forests. Before arriving there, we were issued tons of different gear, sleeping bags and body armor. The quality was OK, but the size didn't always fit well for everyone.

I bought myself a cheap platecarrier that fit me.

The training was very intensive, packed into 35 days.

I learned a lot about international law, military laws, and hierarchy, and then we moved onto practical classes in the field - how to handle a weapon, how to treat wounded, movement, formations, tactics, booby traps, etc.

I would judge the training as the maximum possible in 35 days. However, I would definitely appreciate more training in tactical medicine and shooting.

In total, each recruit fired about 300 rounds from their AKs issued for the time of training.

However, thanks to our instructors and myself, we organized some classes in urban combat and tactics using airsoft weapons.

That was fun and deadly, and we learned well from the instant feedback. For instance, there, I learned to shoot from my left hand and Somali-shooting.

In some cases, our training drilled into mental toughness, even preparing us for the grim reality of becoming POWs. This perspective was interesting, especially as one of our commanders endured ten months as a POW in Mariupol.

Our instructors? Every single one battle-hardened.

I made some great friends there. In my training, most people volunteered to sign a contract with the Armed Forces.

This gives you another level of motivation and understanding of the world in them. I respect that they left their cozy homes and families to protect them.

I am now about to start another training course, specializing in my military job.

This will take some time, and I know my pipeline of getting me into combat so I can make an impact.

I didn't see anything like throwing people into combat right after they got into the Army.

I am motivated to join the fight for the most important concept of the 21st century - Freedom.

I believe Ukraine is the battlefield of ideas—Freedom against Tyranny. I must protect what and who is dear to me.

Thank you for being on this journey with me.

I hope you've found this thread insightful.

Follow me @dim0kq for more stories from Ukraine.

Like/Repost the quote below if you can so more people could understand what is happening in Ukraine, on the ground. Thank you!

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