I am seriously considering going to Ukraine to fight

[Mortos]

I am a veteran. I have training in radio communications, small arms, grenades, claymore mines, machine guns, and shoulder-fired weapons. I have been out of the military for 24 years. I am 55 years old and in good health. It is killing me every day to see the pain inflicted on peaceful Ukrainian civilians and soldiers. President Zelensky has asked people with military experience to come and help defend his country. I feel like a coward standing by and watching a dictator try to subjugate an entire country and kill its women, children, and democratically elected leaders.

It feels like watching history repeat itself and we all now say why didn't someone stop Hitler.

It would cost me just under $800 to fly to Poland.

The military times has instructions about how to apply at a Ukrainian consulate.

I think about this non-stop.

[WarGamer]

1. If you feel it's your calling, then go.

If you don't... you might regret it.

Just make sure your affairs are in place.

[WhiskeyGrinder]

2. Were you in combat before?

[Mortos]

5. I was never in combat as a soldier

I served during the relatively peaceful Clinton years. I did work in Iraq as a civilian contractor but not in a military capacity.

[monkeyman1]

43. Warning - being in a combat zone is whole different world !

not trying to be a smart ass !! think very carefully about that !!

[padah513]

55. Considering that grandmas are taking up arms to fight against the Russians

I say if he feels led to go then God's speed

[monkeyman1]

69. with ya !

[2Gingersnaps]

76. Exactly, if that is your calling, total respect.

I have spent the better part of my life being militantly anti-war. This one is different, it is the one NATO and the UN were built to prevent.

[uponit7771]

94. right

[Kali]

3. do it

go and help.

[markie]

4. I believe many here

if younger and more capable, would go... do what is best for you to act upon

[Kaleva]

12. If this was 30 years ago, I'd seriously consider it

Just out of the Navy and still fit.

[3Hotdogs]

61. I thought on it too. But what use is an 80 year old guy who only speaks English?

Also figured, it would be over before I got there.

[Kaleva]

6. I respect that and wish you a safe return!

[Beakybird]

7. Power to you!

I would go if I were young, especially if I had combat experience.

[sarisataka]

8. Let us know how things go

[democratsruletheday]

9. Whoa...

big step and I have similar thoughts at TIMES but still have two kids in high school and my job sucks but it's steady (teacher)

But I don't have ANY military background like you. I can drive about anything and my guess is they need transport drivers. If they don't put you into the field as a soldier, then they may ask you to drive.

[abqtommy]

10. You have my support no matter what you decide to do. nt

[hlthe2b]

27. Me too. Much respect and I wish you only the best, no matter what you decide.

[Disaffected]

11. It sounds like

you would be very helpful there even in a non-combat role.

[LymphocyteLover]

13. I almost do too though I'm 59 and have no military experience

[emmaverybo]

14. What people (or animals) depend on you here? How do your loved ones feel about you going?

Are there ways to help from here? I admire your courage and passion.

[Amy_Jones_90]

15. I admire you

For your selfless attitude and willingness to do something meaningful. It's easy to express outrage online, and very few go beyond that to actually try to make a difference.

That said, please consider how potentially losing your life in war could affect your loved ones.

[keithbvadu2]

16. You probably won't see Donald Sr, or Donnie Jr, or Eric, or any MAGAts on your flight.

You probably won't see Donald Sr, or Donnie Jr, or Eric, or any MAGAts on your flight.

[monkeyman1]

70. treason & cowardly run deep in that family !! can't take a lawyer ???

[keithbvadu2]

79. Rudy?... He would be like Marine officer Pat Robertson, known as the liquor officer.

He would be like Marine officer Pat Robertson, known as the liquor officer.

While his fellow Marines went off to combat.

[monkeyman1]

81. ok, you owe me computer cleaning !! a good beer shot to hell !!

[AZ8theist]

83. Wait, what? ..

Pat Robertson was a liquor officer in WWII?
I have new found respect for the senile, pathological lying, imbecilic, Buy Bull nonsense spewing idiot.
Who'd a thought??

[keithbvadu2]

85. Korea

[PittBlue]

17. Best of everything to you.

What a brave and wonderful thing to do.

[BlackSkimmer]

18. Please keep us posted. nt

[LakeArenal]

19. Hopefully it will dissolve soon. If you go, go with all good vibes.

[greatauntoftriplets]

20. Take care of yourself.

[WheelWalker]

21. Strength and honor.

[bhikkhu]

22. I have no training whatsoever myself, but I know what you mean

I wish I could help somehow, but maybe buying war bonds would be the best thing in my case.

In 2019 I spent a couple weeks in the Baltics with family, and it was one oft he most beauitiful and friendly areas I've ever been. We planned to go back in 2020, then in 2021, but covid has kept pushing things back. If war came there, training or not, I'd want to go. I'm old and have had a good life, if it went very badly I wouldn't mind as long as it could be the service of good.

[d_b]

23. I wish I could go

Some info

https://wap.business-standard.com/article-amp/international/ukraine-govt-lifts-entry-visa-requirements-for-foreign-war-volunteers-122030100095_1.html



https://www.militarytimes.com/flashpoints/ukraine/2022/02/27/want-to-go-fight-for-ukraine-heres-what-to-do/

[haele]

24. It's a big step. Make sure you talk it over with family and employers.

Get your affairs in order.
And remember, it might be over before you get there. But you can still help out with recovery if that happens.
A couple people I know indicate they also want to go over; I tell them there's always logistics and medical help needed too, if they don't want to fight. Other orgs, like Chef Andres' group, could also use boots on the ground, coordination and comms type help.

Just wish more people would volunteer like this in other world wide disasters more often.

Haele

[Wingus Dingus]

44. I think joining a relief or medical or logistics/supply organization that is not in the combat

zone is the best idea, for Americans who really want to be of use over there, although aside from Chef Andre I don't know who's at the borders helping and taking volunteers. Someone should start a staging place/HQ in Poland that can hook up foreign pro-Ukraine volunteers with non-combat ways to help.

[OneBlueDotS-Carolina]

25. It would balance out...

the many who have flown to Moscow to join the Tucker Carlson Brigade. Sadly many have to wear their civilian kit as Russia didn't have uniforms for the extremely obese.

[fierywoman]

33. heh-heh-heh ...

[Wingus Dingus]

26. You are a kind and brave soul, but you are at an age

where I don't think it's a great idea--my husband is retired military and also expressed that he wishes he could help, but it's not realistic. Something like this is more of a younger person's game, not for those with creaky knees and high blood pressure and who can't speak the language. It's not cowardice to stay out of a war that isn't yours. You served our nation already, and that's more than enough.

[ZonkerHarris]

28. We are going need you here for our fight. We need your vote too.

[lapfog_1]

29. if you need money

I will contribute.

It's not just the flight, you will want cold weather gear, really good boots (the whole place is about to turn into a sea of mud), many pairs of socks, cammo, flak jacket, helmet, and a weapon with ammo... preferably something that shoots rounds that can easily be found in country.

If you can, volunteer at the Polish border to take a shoulder fired missile with you (but they are heavy so you need to be in decent shape).

I'm too old... but I would go if I could.



And a more spring time camo or reversible cammo.

I would tell you to stay safe but in a war zone, that just isn't possible. So be careful.

[Sogo]

30. Do you have a family here?

That would be a big consideration.

[delisen]

31. Plan and prepare for your life if you are seriously injured

If you have US veterans benefits you may be ok if seriously or dreadfully injured and long term disabled.

Some America’s who fought against Franco became long term disabled with no access to good medical care. You would probably qualify for Medicaid if not VA but this is a practical thing to know in advance.

[RainCaster]

32. I'm 63 and have no desire to go

But I will gladly stay here and help fight any cyber warfare. That's closer to what I do.

[oldsoftie]

45. Well we certainly need that as well! Now more than ever. nt

[fierywoman]

34. If you go you will have my prayers and all my woo-woo wishes to surround you with

light and safety.

[NoMoreRepugs]

35. For those of us too old to go (72) that feel the same way good on ya Mortos.

[barbtries]

36. I'm 66, a woman with no military experience

and I even thought about it! I'm totally twisting in the helplessness of this horrific, unnecessary catastrophe.

Talk it over with your loved ones and if you choose to pursue it, I'm supportive. Scared, but supportive. But do weigh all the pros and cons very carefully and honestly.

[yaesu]

37. I'm sure even non military skills would be welcomed, commination's, computer, hacking, logistics

, mechanics, ect... I wish you the best on your decision. I think i wouldn't qualify do to age as they want 18 tp 60 year olds to stay and fight.

[Emile]

38. How long do you think this war will last?

[Quakerfriend]

39. You are a good soul, Mortos

Please, let us know how it goes for you.

It is agonizing to sit here and watch it all on TV, and feel as though the whole world is sort of sitting back and letting it happen.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

40. Excellent!

[Richluu]

41. You can train soldiers

Even if you don't engage in battle.

[MySideOfTown]

42. I'm pretty sure

we could cover your $800 expense. If you could make a go fund me and let us know what it is, I at least would send you $100.

[calimary]

50. Welcome to DU, MySideOfTown!

The GoFundMe idea is a good one!

This old lady will probably keep studying and thinking up strategic messaging and talking points. Then others can be "armed" - in other ways.

Make a contribution - of some sort! That lets you do what you're good at.

[Traildogbob]

46. You are an honorable man

Soldier. But we may very well need you right here after 2022 gets stolen from us with voter rules and our very own Putin gets reinstalled after they steal all power and impeach Joe and Kamala. We have a faction right here being pumped up by the likes of Bannon and Trump that would kill women and children in his name to make us a Putin style country. Evil Assholes wanting to destroy our own democracy and freedom on our soil. When it starts here, count me in to stand by you and have your 180. I have not yet seen a single Russian soldier with the hate filled eyes and gapping mouths of the 1-6 Crowd. Putin’s eyes don’t look that full of hate. This vet respects you.

[oldsoftie]

47. If you do it, try to acquire a sniper rifle; if you're a good marksman.

Snipers can create havoc on the large, slow moving, unorganized Communists.

[BigmanPigman]

48. I have thought about going many times myself.

It would only make matters worse and I'd be more of a detriment since I have never even seen a real gun.

[iemanja]

49. military training would be essential

It's not like if you joined the US armed forces, where they train you.

As a 60 year old woman, I'd be useless. I certainly admire the OP for his dedication.

[BigmanPigman]

53. I'm 59 and they would have to

train me etc. I think we all feel very frustrated and want to help. 💙💛💙💛💙💛💙💛

[Mariana]

56. For many of us, the best thing we can do to help is to send money. nt.

[BigmanPigman]

58. Yes, I did that last week and looked into giving blood

but the US Red Cross says they don't need it at this point, I think the distance may be a factor.

[BlackSkimmer]

84. The Red Cross ALWAYS need blood.

I can’t believe they told you that.

I’m a regular donor.

[Mariana]

89. I don't know who you talked to at the Red Cross.

Their website says:

Worst Blood Shortage in Over a Decade
The American Red Cross is facing a national blood crisis – its worst blood shortage in over a decade, posing a concerning risk to patient care. Doctors have been forced to make difficult decisions about who receives blood transfusions and who will need to wait until more products become available. Blood and platelet donations are critically needed to help prevent further delays in vital medical treatments. Please schedule your blood donation today.

https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/dlp/red-cross-national-blood-shortage-crisis.html

[BigmanPigman]

90. After seeing the post above yours I decided to call

the Red Criss again. Maybe I'll get someone who knows what they're talking about.

[reACTIONary]

51. I think you should check into the legal aspects....

.... American citizens may not be allowed to help a foreign power as an individual choice. And if you are identified as an American, it could create some diplomatic complications and provide a propaganda opportunity to the enemy.

[gibraltar72]

52. I understood some mega buck guy was footing the nill

for veterans. Perhaps that was only Special Forces though.

[Ohioboy]

54. Mortos, the thought has crossed my mind several times as well

I am still within the age range of the men they are using to fight. I could give them a year.

[DENVERPOPS]

57. How about all those radical right wing boys

Promise Keepers, Proud Boys, etc.

They love flaunting their military weapons and gear. Pack em up and send them.
My bet is that they don't confront others who have the advantage of larger numbers, or ones that carry military weaponry......

[BMW2020RT]

59. I have been thinking the same thing.

I am fit and have some firearm skills though no military service beyond traveling with my family during Dad's 20 year tour. I retired early a few months ago so I don't have any employment responsibilities here. I am completely free.

[Ruby the Liberal]

60. How honorable

It is horrible feeling helpless and knowing you have the training and skills to help.

I'm sure they would love to talk with you about what you may be able to assist them with.

God speed.

[BlueJac]

62. Follow your calling...

You are a brave man! May the force be with you!

[ShazzieB]

63. This may seem like a weird question, but have you figured out how you would get there?

I'm honestly curious. Also, I'm the type who always thinks about the logistics of accomplishing a goal (in this case, going to Ukraine to fight), so please bear with me.

First of all, commercial airline flights into Ukraine have all been suspended, no? So I presume you'd have to fly into a country that borders on Ukraine, such as Poland. But then, how do you get from there to Ukraine? Also, assuming you have the transport angle figured out, what are the logistics of crossing a border into a country that is under attack? Are they going to be fussy about who they let in, under the circumstances?

I am genuinely curious. What you want to do is laudable, and it sounds like you have skills that could enable you to make a contribution. I'm just wondering about the nuts and bolts, the practical aspects of actually getting over there and getting into the country, and I admit to being an ignoramus about such things. Maybe you have already researched this, in which case, good for you!

[benpollard]

64. Not all people in Ukraine are good...

A fairly large percentage of the population are separatists who want to join Russia. Many of them are white supremacists.

That said, it's admirable that you should want to help. Most of the people there, as most of the people in Russia, are good and decent, and would prefer to live in a democracy rather than a dictatorship. When Putin is finally defeated, and hopefully that will be soon, perhaps Russia will turn more liberal. We can only hope.

[Skittles]

91. you sound like you are describing the GOP

yes indeed

[uponit7771]

93. This is MAGA, just damn

[Warpy]

65. Do you speak Russian or Ukrainian fluently?

Also consider that good enough shape at 55 is a far cry from good military shape at 29.

Also consider that $800 might be better spent making sure their kids are housed, fed, and clothed until this is over, which might be some time in the distant future. The last thing men at the front need is to worry about their families across the border, and right now, the crisis is massive.

Good luck, it's frustrating to be an ocean away.

[summer_in_TX]

66. You have a good heart.

The Ukrainians are inspiring us all and they are such underdogs. If you are called to help, go with our support and blessings.

The process of discerning that call can be tricky. If you have a sense of peace once you decide, either way, you are on the right path for you.

We are likely to need those with skills and knowhow here soon in a fight for our own democracy. If you decide to go, be safe and come back!

[usonian]

67. Defending our country strengthens all our allies.

Lots to do right here to keep Russian and other assets at bay, if you can't serve abroad.

Without President Joe Biden, all the free world would have been up for sale to the highest bidder.

I have a thread on things we can do to keep democracy alive here, and strengthen it.

Please contribute any action items you find, or hopefully, an even larger list.

https://www.democraticunderground.com/100216380145

I don't think that Anonymous is taking volunteers, but I'll check!

Coast Guard Veteran.

[Aviation Pro]

68. Head over to the military forums and ask questions

Before you pull the trigger make sure you go in with eyes wide open. You may serve better being part of a training package rather than in direct action/combat.

Also, language barriers.

[Hav]

71. Doesn't sound like a great idea

Several posters have raised good points you should go through in detail (language barrier, finding other ways to help, for instance). Would you be on your own? Who would know you are there and keep track of you if something happened? At your age, maybe it'd be better to use your knowledge for good.
Also, if things really turn to shit (hopefully not), you might be needed in the US and in an official capacity.

[ruet]

72. Ask Yourself if You Really Want to Go...

for humanitarian reasons or if it's just the Cold War conditioning urging you to do what you were raised to do. I find it very hard to be objective when it comes to anything Russia.

[left-of-center2012]

73. okie dokie

Go

[Ananda62]

74. I think about this too

I’m a 60 yr disabled female vet. I served during the Gulf War, but not in combat. It’s been years since I used a weapon, so I feel like I’d be more of a hindrance than a help if I went. So, at home I stay, wishing I could do more.

[colorado_ufo]

75. Trust your gut,

whichever way it leads you. And God bless you.

[Duncanpup]

77. Good luck

From former 11B

[IronLionZion]

78. Ukrainian men get conscripted up to age 60

which seems high except their country's existence is at stake here.

The worst part of this, is you might encounter more than a few Americans helping the other side. There have been news articles of Americans fighting for the pro-Russia rebels in the east.

[jstnwill]

80. ❤️

But question is, is this the best thing you can do to help? Or might be, but it might be something else. Give yourself a chance to reflect.

[Nululu]

82. Look into volunteer needs around or for Ukraine

There are people feeding refugees, gathering aid, even collecting feed for zoo animals neat Kyiv.

Best of luck to you

[Upthevibe]

86. Mortos.

I have an overwhelming amount of respect for you.

I have the same thoughts about Hitler and "someone should have done something." .

I considered going over there as well. Having said that, I'm a 64 year old woman (who hasn't had any military training), live paycheck to paycheck, and have to send money to my sister every month or she'd be in a horrible situation. I also have Fibromyalgia and am able to take a very specific supplement that I can only get at certain stores. Without this, I don't think I'd be able to function physically.

I don't know what else to say except I think you're amazing for seriously considering doing whatever you can....Godspeed....

[RoadRunner]

87. Reminds me of something

I applaud and respect your intentions to help another nation like that. Here in the desert southwest, we remember a similar time in history when American private citizens crossed the border and stood shoulder to shoulder with a rag tag band of Mexican farmers and peasants in the battle of Pueblo. Mexicans and Americans together defeated the army of Napoleon, the most bad ass military in the world. Whipped them good and drove them to the sea never to return. We celebrate the battle of Pueblo today as Cinco de Mayo. It’s a really BFD down here.

So, I think you’re doing a noble and courageous thing which will long be remembered in history. Godspeed.

[paleotn]

88. Can't say as I blame you.....

Thought's crossed my mind more than a few times. I've seen a few old vets like me who've dusted off their old war faces. I never saw a moment of actual combat, but me and my shipmates did track and follow the Russkies on more than a few occasions. I have a "special relationship" with the Russians. An old cold warrior I am.

[Liberal In Texas]

92. Good luck to you. I would think the language difference might be problematic.

It would be nice if you could take some nice rocket launchers with you.

Keep us posted.

[hamsterjill]

95. I don't know what to say.

You could lose your life. But then again, any one of us could be hit by a truck today and be gone. Only you can decide and your decision should be respected either way.

But I admire yourself passion and your will, and either way, I wish you safety and peace.

Someone has to stop Putin.

[flying_wahini]

96. The Ukrainians are looking for soldiers. Article in Military times is informative.

Not that I think you should go…..


[link:https://www.militarytimes.com/flashpoints/ukraine/2022/02/27/want-to-go-fight-for-ukraine-heres-what-to-do/|

[Ponietz]

97. From Finland

Link to tweet

[True Dough]

98. What's your status, OP?

Looks like a front is opening in Iran now too.