“I Never Imagined Service Could Be Like This”: From Going AWOL to the 20th Lyubart Brigade
Ukraine’s war with Russia has created a pressing need for experienced soldiers to train the next wave of defenders. Among those now doing that work is a serviceman with the call sign “Bara,” who risks his life on the front lines every day. He has served for more than three years, fought in the battles for Marinka, and spent a year and a half in the Serebryansky forest, where he built his combat skills. According to Bara, the conditions at his previous posting were so hard that he ended up going AWOL. In a video, he describes why returning to civilian life gave him no relief.
A New Unit and an Instructor’s Mission
Looking for a fresh start, Bara chose the 20th Lyubart Brigade, which is part of the Azov 1st Corps of Ukraine’s National Guard. Today he works as an instructor in countering drones, sharing what he learned in combat with newly arrived soldiers.
“I didn’t think service could be like this,” he says.His example shows how essential support and the opportunity to mentor new fighters are in these trying times.
This story highlights the decisive role that experience and preparation play in military life, especially under the pressure of active combat. Bara’s move to the 20th Lyubart Brigade and his new assignment as a trainer reflect the army’s need to keep soldiers ready for evolving threats. Rather than simply continuing to fight, he is also passing on what he knows, which can make a real difference in how effectively units operate in the tough conditions of war.
As the 20th Lyubart Brigade adapts to the evolving landscape of warfare, it's evident that the experiences of seasoned soldiers like Bara are invaluable. This mirrors the insights from another unit, where the Lyut Brigade emphasizes the crucial role of its personnel in achieving operational success. To explore how the human element influences military outcomes, read more about their approach here.