Anatoliy Dobrovolskyi, Deputy Director of the Institute for Correspondence Training of Police Officers of the Educational and Scientific Institute of Correspondence Training and Advanced Qualification of DSUIA, made this choice in a matter of hours. Since February 26, he has been serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine and stands for freedom, integrity and democracy - in the very heart of the armed conflict. We continue the special column "A year at the front: chronicles of the soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine".
Being in the epicenter of a military conflict is a real test of endurance. How quickly you got used to the new reality?
I adapted quite quickly, from the first days of the war, thanks to my knowledge and skills. I am a professional soldier with more than 20 years of experience, and I started gaining combat experience fighting "orks" back in 2016 in Donbas. But in reality, it is impossible to get used to the horrors of war - it is always pain, loss and suffering.
What do you see as your mission?
The main mission, as well as the goal, is the destruction of the enemy on our land, so that our children and their children live in a free society and state. And also revenge: for brothers, children, women and all people who were killed and maimed just because we are Ukrainians.
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How would you like to see the country and Ukrainian society after the victory?
A free, prosperous, happy European state. In my opinion, our society already thinks differently: in the future, we will not be able to put up with corruption or injustice, because freedom and the opportunity to choose our own destiny comes at a very high price. Certain changes are already taking place in the state, even at the level of individual branches of government.
How did the war affect you personally?
It affected everyone. There is no such person who was not affected by the war in one way or another. And after the victory, we have a lot of work ahead of us, including with veterans who will need to be returned to a peaceful life.
What will you do first of all in a peaceful Ukraine?
First of all, I will hug my beloved daughters and go traveling. After all, family is my biggest motivation. Then live and work: each of us has a lot to do. And for now, like everyone else, I dream of our soonest victory.
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