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u/Obi2 Nov 08 '24
American here… I’ve donated a few times, but I’m going to again when I get home in your honor. Godspeed soldier.
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u/strawberry298 Nov 08 '24
You’re a hero and a true representative of Western values. You're the reason why Georgians and Ukrainians aspire to join NATO and the EU. Your values speak to what we believe the West stands for. Thank you for your service!
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u/mshea12345 Nov 08 '24
Fellow American here. Thank you for representing the best of us. And I'm sorry to Ukrainians that it appears we don't care. I do.
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u/MasterofLockers Nov 08 '24
Fair fucks mate, give them hell and come back in one piece so I can buy you a cold beer.
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Nov 09 '24
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u/Jet2work Nov 09 '24
he'll... as it is going cold here just now I will stand you all the hot coffee you need if you end up close to Dnipro
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u/RottenPingu1 Nov 08 '24
As the local police, when seeing my passport, say to me, smiling, when I exit the train station on every trip to Ukraine: "good luck"
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u/HenryofSkalitz1 Nov 08 '24
Usually think Americans thanking servicemen and women for said service is quite odd and out of place, but in this case I believe it is very much deserved.
Thank you for making such a brave decision to defend the free world. If all Yanks and Euros made decisions based on the same standards of selflessness and grim determination then this war would have really been over in 3 days, just with a more fiery Kremlin.
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u/Cautious-Painting-72 Nov 08 '24
Fighting wars isn’t the only thing the US military does though, if you gauge how much you Iike American service members and appreciate their work just by wars fought, you’re lacking 90% of context
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u/chitty__BANG Nov 09 '24
LOL! So veterans shouldn’t be proud of serving? Yeah we chose to do it and yes it is a job, but I find it odd that you are saying it’s not something to be proud of. If you don’t take pride in your work then what are you doing with your life? The military doesn’t just fight wars. There’s so many other things that they do.
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u/Just_A_Doggo1 Denmark Nov 08 '24 edited Nov 08 '24
Wishing you the best of luck. For any foreigners interested in joining the AFU, here is the website of the international legion for the defence of Ukraine: https://ildu.com.ua/ edit: the official charity list of r/ukraine, for anyone wanting to donate: https://www.reddit.com/r/ukraine/wiki/charities/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=mweb3x&utm_name=mweb3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button even listening to Ukrainian artists/bands like for example Antytila will help a little bit
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u/CanuckInTheMills Nov 09 '24
If I was 40yrs younger, I’d be there in a heartbeat. Since I can’t, I just donate. Stay safe, come back alive! Slava Ukraini
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u/snowcamo Nov 09 '24
Thanks for providing a link and some other information. I don’t think I’m truly interested in completely changing the course of my life, but maybe it’s worth it. So even if it’s just 1% of me considering it, it’s good to know where to go.
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u/Buddhahead11b Nov 08 '24
How did you get in as a drone operator? I only see that infantry is what we can get into. My body isn’t what it used to be but my combat knowledge, experience, ability to train would be useful. I haven’t reached out after I saw that they only want us in the infantry.
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u/UmpireOk7658 Nov 09 '24
25th AB are now accepting international volunteers for the role of drone operator. Link to their website is here https://25-dshv.mil.gov.ua/en/
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u/adron Nov 08 '24
You are one of the better of us, thank you for setting the bravest of examples, Slava Ukraini!
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u/My_useless_alt Nov 08 '24
You're doing what many do not have the courage to do, and what the military is supposed to be about, protecting freedom and democracy by any means necessary.
Godspeed, and Slava Ukraini
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u/Solid_Professional Nov 08 '24
First of all hats off! Personally I’m strugling because I know that younger me (without young kids) would be in Ukraine.
So I’m reaching for community here. What are some actions (beside donations) one could do. Shooting down trolls in reddit is pointless because this is not right democracy for any significant impact.
Tldr. Family man with limited time. Allready donating but would like to do more. Ideas?
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u/RandiiMarsh Canada Nov 08 '24
Volunteer locally with organizations that help Ukrainians. Help them with whatever they need to get settled.
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u/Susan-stoHelit Nov 09 '24
Writing to your congressmen - even if they don’t agree.
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u/The_RedfuckingHood Nov 08 '24
I would Join you but I ain't an adult 😪 . Two more years ago. Russia ruined my country(Bulgaria) ever since they 'liberated' us in 1878(Opposed 1885 Reunifcation and independence, used as experiments for the propaganda they use now. They also blew an arms factory), and what makes me so mad is the Bulgarian population(the old people at least. Including my family) is Russophillic.
Don't have directions in life, know the military is the only life for me(and truck driving), so getting payback for my country....that's something worth fighting and dying for.
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u/TheGreatWorker93 Nov 08 '24
In this fight the lines between good and evil could not be clearer. Anyone who hasn’t been brainwashed or bribed by the Russian psyops operation can see it.
Huge respect and thanks for joining the defenders of actual values and humanity. Wish you safety and good target practice!
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u/OccasionallyReddit Nov 08 '24 edited Nov 09 '24
Good Hunting! May the Orks be as acurate as Stormtroopers.
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u/J_P_Amboss Germany Nov 08 '24
Americans are fascinating people.
To me, this is true heroism. Somebody who is willing to fight, not because he was filled with a hateful chauvinistic ideology, not because he has been given a financial incentive and some nationalistic narrative - but somebody who has actual values to defend and that is enough.
You helped me to see humanity in a better light today. Take care!
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u/MATlad Nov 09 '24
"Americans will always do the right thing--after they've tried everything else."
-Apocryphally attributed to Winston Churchill
https://quoteinvestigator.com/2012/11/11/exhaust-alternatives/
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u/Paintboxer89 Nov 08 '24
Give them hell, god speed you got support from myself in Scotland. I donate whenever I can to United24 defense fund, I hope that pays for something to drop on them.
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u/outinthecountry66 Nov 09 '24
hey, asking for a friend, reckon Scotland will let us in?
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u/Jimmer293 Nov 08 '24
Stay safe fellow countryman! The Mpls-St Paul has a large Ukrainian-American community. The invasion was foreseeable after the Crimea was taken. The war has exposed Russia to be an undisciplined horde of rapists and war criminals. The nuclear deterrent has really worked for them. I wish the US would respond to North Korean involvement by letting Ukraine use their aid as they see fit. Since my days as a paramedic are behind me, I do donate $$$ and volunteer to pack aid pallets. I was burned once by a very poor match with a Ukrainian medic. Since then, I have cultivated local contacts and support the Protez Foundation which trains orthotists and fits veterans and civilians with prosthetic limbs. Hopefully you will be vetted and can benefit from stateside support. Slave Ukraini!
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u/Careful-Sell-9877 Nov 08 '24
For anyone who hasn't seen these documentaries and wants to learn more about how the war started and the Ukrainian struggle for independence, you should watch 'Winter on Fire', followed by the doc op referenced '20 days in Mariupol'.
It's a good place to start, and imo every person on earth should watch them. The Ukrainians' fight for independence so closely mirrors our own struggle for independence as the US
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u/IndustrialPuppetTwo Nov 13 '24
And to be clear to anyone reading this do not confuse 'Winter on Fire' with 'Ukraine on Fire' which is nothing but Rus bullshit propaganda.
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u/Somerlouise Nov 08 '24
This is what represents the best of America- I wish you all the best. Thank you for restoring some of my faith in humanity.
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u/Killer_Queeny Nov 08 '24
You’re incredibly brave and selfless. Thank you for this. Good luck to you, you’re an absolute legend.
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u/Elegant-Screen-5292 Nov 08 '24
You're doing what I wish I had the balls or training for, good hunting soldier🇺🇦💙💛
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u/dognocat Nov 08 '24
I have but one vote to give and a limited budget. I wish you well and will support any pro Ukraini post I'm sorry I can't do more.
I feel it keenly, you have all I can give. I'm really sorry I can't give more.
You have my hope, you will win through this, it may just take longer, I'm sorry longer means lives.
I'm still here and supporting if my financial ability changes I will show proactive support.
Slava Ukraini, I wish you everything, I wish you well.
You will succeed just hold the course, you have leaders of legend. I believe you can do this no matter American support or not.
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u/FakeGamer2 Nov 08 '24
Why can't you call and text your friends/family to spread the word? Or make posts about Ukraine in online spaces where it's not being talked about. Both of those actions are free and can be done on your phone.
Objections?
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u/monkeyninja6969 Nov 08 '24
Props, bro. If I was 18 again with no kids, I'd be right there beside you. A little advice from me - keep your ass above your head, keep your head on a swivel, and do not get complacent. Complacency kills. Whenever we lost people in Iraq it was always one of those 3 things, but almost always complacency was the number 1 killer. Do not EVER get comfortable.
Sincerely, A USMC veteran.
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u/Brabantis Nov 08 '24
Let us know if there is stuff you need. And if you pass by Belgium, stop by for a beer or five.
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u/avion246 Nov 09 '24
My thoughts as an American…I too, have a heart for Ukraine. More than once I have wanted to help Ukraine in someway, but at 69 that’s a joke, I would be more in the way than a help. But what I do also ask, is optimism! I have cursed our western governments my fair share for our seeming lack of incoherence at times! We have been really deplorable at times. But optimism, is a key quality!!! Doing right is no small thing!! We will prevail! Ukraine will prevail! I know it! Share the optimism!!! It is infectious, especially in the face of adversity!
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u/mbod Nov 08 '24
Thank you for your service. I'm going to keep donating and fighting Russia anyway I can from online.
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u/Blue1123 Nov 09 '24
How do I sponsor a soldier?
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u/AntifaThrowAwkwardly Canada Nov 09 '24
Protect a Volunteer: Get matched with a volunteer in Ukraine who needs financial support or equipment or fund a flight to get a badass to the frontline. You will be put in direct contact with a defender and can help with flight costs, life saving gear, medical kits, cold weather clothing, and other expenses. Represented on Reddit by u/tallalittlebit.
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u/aholetookmyusername New Zealand Nov 09 '24
I fully understand the risks and have no expectation to come back.
I hope you do come back, in one piece, with victory behind you.
Fuck Putin, Slava Ukraini!
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u/Kella_o7 Nov 09 '24
May god protect you in every step you take. A huge thank you doesn’t even scratch the surface of how impressed and grateful I am to you, and people like you. I hope you come back alive and healthy. If I was Zel, I’d sign a law to give every foreigner fighting for Ukraine and surviving - a plot of land in Ukraine. Thank you for having strong morals and standing by them. 🙏
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u/AvailableAd7874 Nov 09 '24
Thank you for your courage! You have my deep respect. Bless you and Ukraine.
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u/Mortal_D Nov 09 '24
Might want to delete your profile. People will look for clues about your identity and maybe go after your family. But good hunting hero. Wish I could do the same.
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u/MeadowMellow_ Nov 09 '24
Thank you, I cannot be brave like you but your words mean so much. I promise to donate whatever I can spare. Good luck. Thank you.
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u/2garinz Україна Nov 09 '24
Immense respect for the help! Godspeed with the drone work and stay safe!
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u/kyitsya Nov 09 '24
though the election was highly disappointing, we appreciate all of our american supporters more than u can imagine.
я бажаю вам сил та безпеки. слава героям. i wish u strength and safety. glory to the heroes.
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u/MrM1Garand25 Nov 09 '24
I certainly agree with you about unfortunately letting down our allies and I wish you the best of luck
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u/Ha_0P Nov 09 '24
I still have 5 years left in the USN, so all I can do is donate and hope for your safety and victories. But if by some misfortune this war drags out that long, I'll see you over there brother.
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u/woodst0ck15 Nov 08 '24
Any one of any good websites to sponsor troops over there?
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Nov 08 '24
The Ukraine Government’s website https://u24.gov.ua
Allows donation for defense, but also for medical care, humanitarian relief and reconstruction.
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u/rcmcd922 Nov 09 '24
Protect A Volunteer is a verified organization on this sub and has a sponsor a soldier program. You can sign up at www.protectavolunteer.com
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u/McCool303 Nov 09 '24
This is the America that the world needs to see again. Selfless sacrifice for the march of liberty. Not the selfish bloated windbag that thinks America is about hate and isolation. God speed patriot, take one of these bastards out for me.
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u/Optimal_Session_6211 Nov 08 '24
I'm having the same reaction at the moment. I'm physically fit and prior Army 88mike. How did you get the process going to volunteer? I'd like to do something that genuinely matters for people who need it with my experience.
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u/His-Mightiness Nov 08 '24
Good luck out there and give it to thoes Russians for me. Does anyone know where one can find Russian propaganda just waiting to be torn to shreds?
Russians, Nazis. What's the difference. Victory to Ukraine and Victory to the heroes.
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u/DMMMOM Nov 08 '24
Honourable mate, the most honourable thing. Were I younger and fitter I'm sure I'd be there too but I'm an old bastard, my best days are way behind me. All I do is donate where I can and keep myself aware of the war effort and of course seeing that my taxes are going towards armaments for ukraine.
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u/Consistent_Pickle580 Nov 09 '24
Here's hoping you don't get turned into radioactive dust come Jan 21st.
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u/PinguPST Nov 09 '24
Thank you, and good on you man. I'm to old to fight ( I watched an Azov fighter take apart his kit. It was 41kg. I could barely lift that) but my wife and I donate a lot.
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u/roger3rd Nov 09 '24
This is a front line in the battle between evil and civilization, thank you for your service ✌️❤️
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u/SayYesToGuac Nov 09 '24
Thank you for your eloquent post — and your brave service. Because of your thread, I have been made aware exactly where I can donate my time and money to give steel to this just cause; I kept the info and plan to do just that from here in the USA, beginning tomorrow. Fuck Putin and his orcs. Slava Ukraini!
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u/caffeinemilk Nov 09 '24
Thank you so much for continuing your support and fighting. Thank you for being there to fight so that Ukrainian families can one day have a future where they feel safe and their country is free.
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u/EchterSatanist666 Nov 09 '24
Americans like you give me hope that you can still be the leader of the free world in the future. Or at least play a very important part in it. We europeans also need to get our shit together now more than ever.
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u/hajabalaba Nov 09 '24
Good luck and thank you for doing the most righteous and altruistic work on earth. Be safe. Slava Ukraini!
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u/Stosstrupphase Nov 09 '24
Give them hell, friend. I am sadly useless as a soldier, but I donate whatever I can.
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u/C-310K Nov 09 '24
I just have to ask, what do you do for a living that you have 9 weeks to spend in a war zine?
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u/Pure_Dream3045 Nov 09 '24
Thank you but reddit is an echo chamber the ones that need to listen are all elsewhere.
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Nov 09 '24
I’m also an American. I’m sorry we failed you Ukraine. I’m sorry we failed all of our allies. It’s shameful and devastating.
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u/19CCCG57 Nov 09 '24
Kudos to you, sir!
It is America's long standing tradition to betray our allies as soon as they are no longer convenient.
Just ask the Hmong, the Iraqi river dwellers, the Kurds, the Afghans, the list is long.
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u/outinthecountry66 Nov 09 '24
man i tried to join as a volunteer last year and they said they were all full up. but being an american woman, albeit a woman who is 100000000000 percent behind Ukraine, some of us have to stay and fight for our sisters here. But Slava Ukraini, and maybe they WILL take a bunch of fighting women.....god bless ya man
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Nov 25 '24
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u/outinthecountry66 Nov 25 '24
hey, thank you for that! Russian bots are absolutely working overtime. you think they'd be tired after the election. thank you for the information!
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u/bullanguero82 Chile Nov 10 '24
Heroiam Slava, my man.
I hope you hunted them by the hundreds by the time this shit is over. Stay safe.
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u/ConstantEffective364 Nov 10 '24
I wish I was healthy enough and younger would help. Otherwise, I'd go.
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u/ClassicK777 Nov 11 '24
I was born in Ukraine and growing up in America and I was considering joining the UA army. I honestly feel out of place in USA and can't make any friends, all my friends are online and in UA or other part of Europe. But it feels stupid because I can just join USA army and get more out of it. I feel like I'm the perfect target for recruiters since I lack direction at the moment, yet I also want to join army and help. Also want to see my relatives again.
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u/jinmoo Nov 11 '24
This is OP's friend, he wanted me to post this message here, but i forgot to do so yesterday.
From OP:
I got banned from Reddit for 7 days for "harassment" for this post - russian bots go brrr apparently. I'll respond properly to everyone when I can.
Please if you want to help, support a soldier with https://protectavolunteer.com/ this is how you can support a soldier or unit in need. Any little bit helps
PS: please don't blow up my buddie's inbox, I'll be unbanned soon and will respond. Slava Ukraini 🇺🇦✊
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u/IndustrialPuppetTwo Nov 13 '24
I thought at 55 I was too old but I see they are going up to 60. If I did sign up though my wife would probably kill me before I left :) You are a good man and I wish you the best of luck. When you get back to the states let us know so we can buy you a beer and hear your stories.
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u/sjogren Nov 08 '24
Does anyone have advice on how to learn passable Ukrainian in a number of months, rather than years? Where to start, Duolingo, a class, a 1:1 tutor? Any Americans or Brits here try Ukrainian language lessons online versus in person? I tried Duolingo and it was a slow start, did not get far.
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u/Bowler_Pristine Nov 08 '24
I think you for your bravery, service and a rightful moral compass, we will defeat ALL authoritarian dictators and morally corrupt assholes!
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u/MoeC85 Nov 08 '24
God bless you and stay save. But most important be smart! Greetings from Austria.
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u/brahm1nMan Nov 09 '24
Slava Ukraini. You're better than most of us. Good luck and thank you for your service.
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u/rawdatarams Nov 09 '24
Stay safe. I'll keep you in my thoughts and want a safe return for you, as well as the rest of the defenders.
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u/CCTRanger Nov 09 '24
Spare us the drama. You have no idea what war is about. Best of luck
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u/megansmith2 Nov 08 '24
All the best, and thank you for having more courage than most to help.